Vocational training changed Edina’s life
After falling behind in her studies and failing her final secondary school exams, Edina felt uncertain about her future. Completing vocational training not only opened new career opportunities, but it also gave her the confidence and self-esteem she had been missing.
In June 2023, Edina was admitted into the SOS Children’s Villages Malawi Young Women Technical Skills Empowerment Project. After struggling with the disappointment of her failed exams, she received the support she needed to rebuild her confidence and believe in herself again.
– SOS Children's Villages Malawi told me that this wasn't the end for me. Formal education isn't for everyone, and I could learn different skills to use in life, Edina says.
A popular hairdresser
She enrolled in SOS Children's Villages vocational training center in Lilongwe, Malawi where she was trained in salon management and hairdressing.
– Ever since I was a little girl, I liked doing people's hair, but I wasn't very good at it. After the training I've become much more skilled.
That confidence shines through in her newly opened salon, which has quickly become popular. Just two weeks in and she’s already welcoming a steady stream of customers.
– I think that's because I interact with so many people and do a good job. My customers recommend me to others.
From quiet to outgoing
Interacting with many people hasn’t always been easy for Edina. Before starting the vocational training programme, she often felt shy and reserved.
– At the training center, we not only received hairdressing training. We also had classes where we learned different life skills. I used to be very quiet and spent a lot of time alone. But there I learned to interact with other girls.
A role model for other girls
Even though she just opened her salon, Edina already has plans to expand. She wants to offer nail care services once she can buy the necessary equipment.
As the business grows, she also hopes to train other girls like herself, who have struggled in formal school, so that they can gain vocational skills and become independent.
– It's very important for me to help other girls build confidence in themselves. A lot of girls in my community feel that there is no alternative to formal education. But there is, and I want to encourage them to learn other skills and support themselves, just like I am now able to do
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