By Samu Busika | Co-Director, Swazi SHEROES
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Because of your continued generosity, Swazi SHEROES remains a safe and empowering space for young women in Eswatini to heal, learn, and build brighter futures. As we near the end of this cohort’s program year, we’re proud to share the progress and transformation your support has made possible.
This quarter, 15 young women continued their journey with SHEROES, with three graduating early to attend college. The remaining beneficiaries are preparing to graduate at the end of November 2025, each equipped with vocational and life-skills that will help them thrive long after the program ends.
Through consistent mentorship, the women have strengthened their financial independence, started small businesses, and joined a savings group that encourages financial discipline and accountability. The safe-space “sisterhood” they’ve created continues to be a vital source of healing and mutual support.
Life-skills sessions this quarter focused on healthy relationships, trauma recovery, gender-based violence awareness, parenting after abuse, and safety planning. Participants opened up about personal struggles and shared stories of growth and courage, supporting one another as they learned about self-worth, emotional boundaries, and community resources.
“I used to believe it was normal to be beaten by a man,” shared one 19-year-old participant. “Through SHEROES, I’ve learned to value myself and seek safety. I even ended an abusive relationship because I finally felt strong enough to stand on my own.”
These sessions continue to restore confidence, dignity, and hope among women who have survived difficult circumstances.
Under the fashion and design program, participants mastered new skills in skirt, shirt, and dressmaking with guidance from an external trainer. They also designed vibrant African-print aprons, cushion covers, and makeup bags now being produced for local sale.
“Sewing and beadwork have transformed my life,” said Lawrencia Mamba, 29, a single mother supported through SHEROES. “I can now earn an income and care for my daughter. Thank you for believing in me.”
Through these creative enterprises, SHEROES women are turning talent into opportunity, a true reflection of empowerment in action.
While enthusiasm remains high, not all participants share the same passion for sewing. We plan to diversify future training to include baking, cooking, and detergent-making, allowing each woman to pursue her individual interests.
Economic hardships and emotional stress also affect attendance and motivation, highlighting the need for continued psychosocial support and mentorship even beyond graduation.
The program continues to transform the lives of young women and offer real hope in the midst of significant national challenges. The loss of USAID funding has had visible ripple effects across Eswatini’s NGO sector, with many organizations struggling to survive and turning to private partnerships in a very constrained economy. Small businesses are also under pressure, as the country works to keep its economic and social fabric intact. In this context, your support of Swazi SHEROES is especially vital. It is not only sustaining the program, but also helping young women build resilience, income, and dignity when opportunities around them are shrinking.
Thank You – Siyabonga!
Links:
By Lizzie Ngwenya-Scoburgh, PhD | Swazi SHEROES Advisory Board Chair
By Lizzie Ngwenya-Scoburgh, PhD | Advisory Board Chair, Swazi SHEROES
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