In our last blog, we updated you on the #SKIC women of Chile (who are thriving in our SKImfi and SKILLS programs!) Now, our founder, Shyam, has been visiting our sites in Zimbabwe, and we have more exciting updates about our beneficiaries on the other side of the world.
SKIMFI women cooking lunch from food produced locally using microfinance loans.
Thanks to our SKImfi manager, Beatrice, the program is growing steadily. She’s done a fantastic job in choosing committed women who will receive the greatest impact from microfinance loans. Shyam spent a day in a rural village called Gombakomba, where he met with the local chief. Shyam explained our long-term development goals, and the chief showed enthusiasm about how morale has improved for his community.
Shyam discusses using SKIMFI beneficiary profits to rebuild the village’s water delivery system with locals.
The beneficiaries in Zimbabwe use their loans to buy livestock and sell the poultry and eggs, as well as longer-term investments in goats and pigs. Others are involved in classical trading such as vegetables, clothing, and small goods. Beatrice runs monthly workshops to train the women in business skills such as bookkeeping and planning.
Two beneficiaries with our manager Beatrice in Gombakomba
The SKIPGO scholarship program is making a big difference in our scholars’ lives. Since the girls are so young, they are absorbing very quickly at the Early Learnings School in Mutare. Since Shyam’s visit last year, their understanding of English has improved and they look healthier due to the eating habits encouraged by the school. Their demeanor was outstanding.
The 2016 SKIPGO scholars.
One of our new scholars, Tinawimba, came from a difficult background and a challenging part of town. She was very disruptive and had issues handling her emotions. Now, she is working well with others and is clearly a natural leader. Girls like her get the most out of early-stage education and we’re excited to see how she does over the next few years.
Portrait of SKIC founder drawn (and signed!) by one of SKIPGO’s budding artists.
