05 Jul Empowering Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Kadondi Esther
At just 23 years old, Kadondi Esther is already making waves in her community, proving that with the right support and determination, dreams can become reality. Esther, a beneficiary of Act4Africa’s skilling program, has transformed her life through hard work, dedication, and the opportunities presented to her.
Supported by Care International, Esther embarked on a journey to learn hairdressing. The program provided her with comprehensive training, covering various aspects of the trade, from styling techniques to customer service. Upon successfully completing her course, Esther was not only awarded a certificate but also a start-up kit essential for launching her own business. This kit included a hair dryer, shampoo, braids, rollers, and other necessary tools, giving her the perfect foundation to begin her entrepreneurial journey.
Esther’s story, however, is not just about acquiring skills and tools; it’s about resilience and smart financial management. As an active member of the YSLA Savings group, she tapped into the power of community support. She borrowed 40,000 UGX from the group to establish her salon. This strategic investment, coupled with her training, enabled her to open a fully equipped salon in Mayuge Town Council.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, Esther chose a location that didn’t attract much foot traffic, impacting her business’s visibility and customer flow. Recognizing this, she made a strategic decision to relocate her salon to a more accessible and high-traffic area. This move proved to be a turning point, significantly increasing her customer base and boosting her business’s success.
Today, Esther’s salon is thriving. She saves 5,000 UGX weekly with the YSLA Savings group, demonstrating her commitment to financial discipline and long-term growth. Her salon has become a staple in the community, known for quality services and a welcoming atmosphere.
But Esther’s vision extends beyond her current achievements. Her long-term goal is to expand her salon into a larger enterprise where she can employ others, creating job opportunities and further contributing to her community’s economic development. She dreams of becoming a boss who mentors and empowers others, much like how Act4Africa and Care International empowered her.
Esther’s story is a testament to the impact of targeted skills training and the importance of community support structures. Through the combined efforts of Act4Africa’s training programs and the financial backing from Care International, young people like Esther are given the tools and opportunities to build sustainable futures. Her active participation in the YSLA Savings group underscores the significance of financial literacy and community-based financial systems in fostering entrepreneurship.
In a world where young people often face significant barriers to economic independence, Esther’s journey is an inspiring reminder that with perseverance, the right training, and community support, it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve one’s dreams. She stands as a role model, not just for other young women in Mayuge, but for anyone striving to change their circumstances through hard work and strategic planning.
As she continues to save, grow her business, and plan for the future, Esther embodies the spirit of resilience and hope. Her story is a shining example of what can be achieved when organizations like Act4Africa and Care International invest in the potential of youth.