Women Looking Forward

by Kelly Bean

Chantal and Therese design a new pattern

 

In May Lori spent a week with the women of New Destiny. She and Alice (our translator and adviser) made a preliminary assessment of the tailoring business. The women talked about the structure of their cooperative and the possibility of growing and diversifying their business. She also worked with the women to create new product lines for the holidays - tiny basket ornaments and African print stuffed animals. These items will be sold at craft fairs this fall. 

Mukanese sews a sample craft

Before we left, we asked the members of New Destiny how they felt they were doing. The women reported that they feel better off than they were in the past. They have been able to relocate to a rented shop right next to the large open-air market in Kabuga. This brings them a brisk walk-in business. More tailoring training, more machines and a larger space are goals but they are making their way forward bit by bit.

Sample elephant dubbed "George"