It was a joyous occasion at Grace Family Church in Ballito last Wednesday as the vibrant Owesifazane Onethemba (Women of Hope) celebrated their graduation.

The skills transfer mentorship programme, created by sewing guru Colleen Blew, is dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs.

The celebration highlighted the programme’s emphasis on the inner strength and God-given talents of women.

Since 2019, the programme has selected women from across KwaDukuza for training in fashion design at the church. This year, 25 women graduated, including 10 participants of the ‘Train the Trainer’ initiative.

“The beginners sewing programme runs for four months. In the mornings we have sewing training and in the afternoons run the Alpha discipleship course with the ladies.

“We will soon be starting the beginners programme in churches in surrounding communities as well. So, we invited five pastors’ wives and their assistants for training. This is a new initiative, and we will take it step by step,” said Blew.

She expressed her appreciation for her team and all the volunteers.

“We especially appreciate the support of Marc and Mandy Poreè and their Grace Church Ballito team, as well as Dave Ritcher and his Grace Aid team,” said Blew.

Participants shared how the programme positively impacted their lives, both spiritually and in skills development.

Melville resident Lindiwe Makhanya expressed her gratitude for the programme after completing the beginners course.

“Not only did I learn a skill, but I also found spiritual upliftment. Before we started, we would be fed with the word of God from the Bible, and that is how I got to know more about God and found peace.

“I remember when I started I would shake when I first tried to use the machine, but we have very patient trainers. We were like babies, and they guided us through the process until we were able to stand and walk proudly. I am now a proud woman, and my home will never be a playground for hunger again,” said Makhanya.

Through this programme, women have secured jobs and others have started their own businesses, showcasing the transformative power of women helping women.

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