Practice Day Looks Like This
Hairdressing instructor Madam Olivia is teaching, and the girls are practicing braiding
Last week I took you inside our tailoring classes. This week, let's head over to hairdressing!
Every week, 20 girls show up to learn from Madam Olivia, our hairdressing instructor.
And when I say “show up,” I mean it!
Some of the girls are young mothers, so they bring their children with them, get them settled into our little nursery playroom, and then head to class.
We're also very tight on space at our Vocational Center, so the hairdressing classes actually take place outside Madam Kigogo's home. She is the local chairperson in Buwudha and has been a wonderful supporter of the girls and our programs.
No fancy salon. No big classroom.
Just 20 girls who are eager to learn, and people in the community who are making sure they have the opportunity.
On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Madam Olivia teaches the girls new techniques. Then Thursday is practice day, when they work on each other, or whoever happens to be available!
And all that practice is paying off.
Remember Gift, whose story I shared with you a couple of weeks ago?
She has become excellent at twisted locks and cornrows and is now one of the standout students in the class!
I love being able to share that update with you because this is what we've been watching happen since January.
The girls are learning.
They're practicing.
They're getting better.
And they're gaining confidence in themselves along the way.
These skills can give them a way to earn an income, but what I see happening at the Vocational Center goes even deeper than that.
The girls have a place where they feel safe, seen, cared for, and supported.
They're discovering things they're good at. And little by little, they're beginning to see more possibilities for their futures.
You are helping make that possible.
Thank you for giving Gift and all of these girls the opportunity to learn, grow, and discover just how much they can do.
We are so grateful to have you with us!
With gratitude,
Mary
P.S. One of my favorite things is hearing how proud the girls are when they master a new skill. Gift becoming so good at twisted locks and cornrows is just one example. There's something pretty special about watching a girl realize, “I can do this!” Thank you for making moments like that possible.
