Skills for Life Centre in rural Zambia

Exciting progress is underway at the newly renamed Climate Resilience Centre (formerly the Skills for Life Centre) in rural Sinazongwe. We are thrilled to share that the centre’s very first building—the tailoring room—is nearly complete. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’ve fenced the property, established a thriving regenerative agriculture demonstration garden and nursery, and are now preparing to paint and finish the exterior of the tailoring room. This space, equipped with tailoring machines donated by Tools with a Mission, will serve as the heart of our upcoming skills training programs.

The transformation of our centre is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about empowering the next generation. In June, we will welcome our first group of volunteers from a UK school, with a second group arriving in July, to help us launch our inaugural training sessions. This year marks a significant shift as we move from producing reusable pads—an initiative we’ve run for the past decade—to creating new reusable underwear designed to better meet the needs of local girls. By the end of the year, we expect the training to reach at least 300 girls, equipping them with both practical skills and much-needed products.

The urgency of this work cannot be overstated. In Sinazongwe, UNICEF estimates that fewer than 5% of girls complete their schooling, with almost all girls at our partner schools reporting that they miss school every month because they lack menstrual products. The new centre stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. As one participant shared, “When I have my period, I have to stay home because I have nothing to use and I feel embarrassed. Missing school means I fall behind, and sometimes I just want to give up. Knowing I can learn to make my own underwear at the new centre, and help other girls too, makes me feel proud and hopeful for my future.”

With the continued support of you our community and partners, we look forward to opening doors, changing lives, and making sure that every girl has the chance to thrive. Please keep following us on our fundraising journey as we are still raising money for the weaving room that will be attached to the tailoring room. 

We are delighted to inform you of recent developments at the Climate Resilience Centre, formerly the Skills for Life Centre. Thanks to your unwavering support, we have successfully fenced the property which was a crucial step in securing our site for future advancements.

Currently, our efforts are concentrated on raising the remaining funds needed to complete the first building, designated as the tailoring room. This facility is not merely a building; it represents an opportunity to provide crucial skills to children in rural Zambia, enabling them to build brighter futures. We anticpate being able to diretcly train 300 children a year at the tailoring room but many more will be able to access the reusable sanitary wear at the centre's convenient location.

A reminder of the importance of the Centre as we enter a new year!

Zambia is a country celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, but it faces significant challenges, especially in rural areas. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of the Climate Resilience Centre:

- Education in Rural Zambia: Approximately 60% of Zambia's population resides in rural regions where quality education is often scarce. Many children must travel extensive distances to attend school, frequently in substandard conditions.
- Youthful Population: With 46.8% of its population under the age of 15, Zambia has one of the world's youngest demographics. Equipping these young people with education and practical skills is essential for the country's future development.
- Economic Empowerment: Skills such as tailoring offer sustainable livelihood options, empowering young people and boosting the economic vitality of their communities.

Thanks to your ongoing support, the Climate Resilience Centre will serve as a transformative space, providing educational and vocational opportunities precisely where they are needed most.

## Plans for 2026

Looking to the future, we have ambitious plans for 2026. We aim to complete the tailoring room, allowing us to start the second phase of our project. A key element in our vision is the creation of the chaya tree garden, featuring 200 trees generously funded by Guernsey Overseas Aid. This garden will serve as a nursery for producing climate-resilient crops, including both exotic and indigenous superfoods.

Should our fundraising efforts prove successful, we also hope to commence the next stage of the Centre’s development by the end of the year, which includes constructing the IT room and an entrepreneurship room. These facilities will further our mission to equip young Zambians with the skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.

Our progress thus far is entirely attributable to you—our generous donors. Your contributions have been pivotal to our success, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment and belief in this transformative initiative. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for the children of Zambia.

Thank you once again for your incredible generosity and support.

The whole School Club Zambia team.

We will continue to keep you updated on the developments of the project. Your ongoing support is invaluable, and we are confident that together, we will achieve our shared vision.