Meet Grace Banda, a young and determined woman from Kauma Community in Lilongwe, who has turned her life around with the help of the Tingathe Training Program. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of vocational education and the unwavering support of a community.
Grace’s life was not always as vibrant as it is now. In her early twenties, she found herself facing the harsh realities of poverty and unemployment. She struggled to make ends meet for herself and her family. The lack of skills and knowledge left her dreams hanging by a thread, and hope seemed like a distant dream.
It was during these dark times that a ray of light pierced through Grace’s life. Her friend, who had also been a beneficiary of the Tingathe Training Program, shared her own success story with Grace. She spoke of how Tingathe had opened doors of opportunity and transformed her life. Intrigued and inspired, Grace decided to take a leap of faith and enroll in the Tingathe Training Program.
“When I heard about Tingathe from my friend, I knew I had to give it a shot. It felt like a beacon of hope in my darkest moments,” Grace recalls with a smile.
With the support of Tingathe, Grace embarked on a journey of skill-building and self-discovery. The program nurtured her passion for tailoring and fashion design, honing her abilities and equipping her with essential entrepreneurial skills. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, Grace blossomed into a talented and confident individual.
But Tingathe’s support went beyond just training. Grace found herself surrounded by a community that believed in her potential. The encouragement and companionship she experienced during her training empowered her to believe in herself and her dreams.
“Tingathe didn’t just teach me how to sew and design. They believed in me and supported me every step of the way. They were like a family, cheering me on and guiding me to greatness,” she shares gratefully.
After her graduation in April 2023, Grace wasted no time looking for a job. She set up a workshop at her home in Kauma. Grace poured her heart and soul into her craft, creating beautiful clothes for children, men, and women.
With her newfound success, Grace has not forgotten her roots. She uses a portion of her earnings to support her family and other needy members of her community. “I know the struggles they face because I’ve been there. I want to be a beacon of hope for them, just like Tingathe was for me,” Grace says compassionately.
But Grace’s ambitions do not end with her own success. She envisions something greater—an opportunity to create a ripple effect of change in her community. “I want to open a larger workshop and train young people who are struggling like I once did. I want to give them a chance to shine, to break free from the chains of unemployment,” she passionately shares.
Today, Grace’s success story serves as an inspiration to many. She transformed from a struggling young woman to a thriving entrepreneur who not only crafts beautiful garments but also weaves hope and dreams for those around her. Her journey, fueled by the support of Tingathe and her determination, showcases the power of education and community in changing lives.
As she reflects on her past, Grace’s eyes sparkle with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. “Tingathe changed my life and made me believe in the possibilities that lie ahead. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I received. With the same love and support, I hope to light up the paths of many others,” she says with unwavering hope.
Grace Banda’s journey is a reminder that with determination, support, and the right opportunities, one can rise above any adversity. She is living proof that the smallest acts of kindness and the most meaningful investments in education can lead to remarkable transformations. Through her heartwarming story, Grace continues to touch lives and leave an indelible mark on her community—a true embodiment of the spirit of Tingathe.