By Jean Bathke | Director
Its been a wonderful nine months for Mamafrica since our move to our new location in Bukavu, eastern DRC. We've settled in very well, and we had an exceptional remainder of 2015 for our sewing and vocational training program. Its been an exciting time of growth, and with the stability that we've built in the previous year we are looking forward to providing a number of scholarships for children of our artisans this Spring!
Our artisans are doing well, and there is a cultivated sense of extended family within our small offices. Many days, the gentle sound of women singing softly together as they sew may be heard. Its a peaceful place, a refuge of creative and focused activity.
One of our employees, Mama Belvie, was among those terribly impacted by and wounded by the war. She had been unable to go to school, had no diploma, no opportunity for employment, and was living with her family in a large building along with 70 others. One night durning the war, armed militia attacked that building with grenades, and Mama Belvie was among just seven to survive. Her wounds certainly run deep. And yet, Mama Belvie not only survives, she thrives. She actively seeks to learn more and to continue her growth. She is employed by Mamafrica full-time, and lives with her children and extended family in Bukavu.
Mama Belvie is the reason Mamafrica exists. We are deeply proud to be providing stable, full-time employment, along with skills training and meals, in a happy and safe work environment. Our Operations Assistant, Jamilah Dawkins, will be on-site in Bukavu in March implementing new programming, and gathering more stories, updates, and photos to share with you.
Thank you for your support of Mamafrica; your contribution is both meaningful and impactful. All donations go directly and entirely to School Fees and Scholarships for our artisans' little ones. Your generosity is directly creating opportunity, stability, and supporting family. For this, we thank you.
Sincerely,
Jean Bathke
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