Braiding My Future: Mary’s Journey to Independence
In a lot of communities, young women with no income-generating skills often find themselves trapped in cycles of dependence on their partners and family members for survival. This vulnerability exposes them to gender-based violence and limits their chances of achieving their dreams, as they cannot break the cycle of violence. Mary, a 20-year-old from Mufakose, has the opportunity to grow and transform through the Care2Share project being implemented by Family Support Trust with support from Young Africa International. The Care2Share project aims to empower young people by equipping them with essential skills that promote economic independence. A significant number of Care2Share students are young women who are at risk of gender-based violence, as indicated by the high volume of survivors attended to by Family Support Trust. Mary lives with her mother and siblings, with her mother being the breadwinner. Mary has had her own fair share of struggles. She became pregnant at the age of 18 before starting Form 5. This greatly disappointed her mother, who had high hopes for her, but she stood by her daughter during the pregnancy. Though she tried to build a relationship with the child’s father, the brief and unstable relationship only lasted for a little while; she eventually returned home, unsure of what her future held. Despite all these difficulties, one thing remained constant: her passion for hairdressing. I have always been passionate about hairdressing, but I never had the chance. I always admired people in my neighbourhood who would be busy plaiting and earning a living.” Before joining the program, Mary was often stressed about her finances. She didn’t know where or how to earn money to fend for herself and her child. The hands-on training in cosmetology has transformed Mary’s passion into a profession. She continues to enhance her braiding skills by plaiting her mother’s hairand she has since mastered different hairstyles such as cornrows and box braids, skills she never pictured herself acquiring. “Even if today I move away from Mufakose, I know I am moving around with my business because I know wherever I am based in I can continue running my business, my hands are my toolsand I can work anywhere.” The life skills sessions offered through Care2Share have become a safe space, a place to share her challenges, write down her dreamsand begin to believe in herself again. “I get to write down my dreams and plans for the future”, she said. Mary dreams of renting a chair in a local salon to start small, then expanding to her own space. Her ultimate goal? To open one of the biggest salons on the other side of Samora Machel Avenue, offering a full range of beauty services. Through the entrepreneurship skills sessions she attends, these are empowering her on the possibilities of running her own business and being her own boss. Care2Share has not only empowered a youth, but it has also provided an opportunity for a young mother, a young woman to escape the chances of experiencing gender-based violence by acquiring skills and economic independence.
Thoko’s Journey to Empowerment
The WAVE project is a collaborative initiative implemented by the Family Support Trust (FST), Adult Rape Clinic (ARC)and Nzeve Deaf Centre. The word stands for Women Against Violence through Empowerment. It focuses on empowering those who have experienced sexual and gender-based violence as a means of reducing further revictimization, continued emotional abuse, stigmaand discrimination, among others. The project is being implemented in Mutare district, Manicaland province, where gender-based violence is rife. Thoko, a mother of three from Zimunya, faced overwhelming financial hardships when her husband left her without any source of income. Living in an abusive relationship, she found herself in a difficult situation, as her husband, known in the community for his alcoholism, would often resort to violence when drunk. Fortunately, after an awareness and sensitization campaign in her community, Thoko learned about the Family Support Trust (FST) clinic and decided to seek counselling. This pivotal step marked the beginning of her transformation. In November 2023, Thoko enrolled in the WAVE project, a program designed to empower women through livelihood skills training. Despite her struggles, Thoko’s determination shone through as she embraced the opportunity to learn how to make dishwashing liquid. With the support of FST and a startup kit provided to her, she launched her own business selling dishwashing liquid, soon expanding to include toilet cleaners. Thoko’s venture has proven to be a remarkable success. With the help of her three daughters, who eagerly assist her in producing the products after school, she has managed to sell over 60 litres of dishwashing liquid. “Thanks to the startup kit from FST, I was able to sell a 20-litre bucket of dishwashing liquid. Thoko shared with pride. Her business not only provides financial stability but also serves as a platform for empowerment. Thoko is committed to teaching her daughters the skills they need to thrive, ensuring they are equipped to support themselves in the future. Thoko’s success is a testament to the power of community support. Her neighbours have rallied behind her business, encouraging her and helping to spread the word. Remarkably, since becoming a small business owner, Thoko has not experienced any further assaults from her husband, highlighting the positive change in her life. “My journey has been challenging, but I refuse to give up. The skills I’ve learned through the WAVE project have transformed my life and my family’s future,” Thoko said. Thoko’s story exemplifies the profound impact of the WAVE project. The project empowers women to achieve financial independence by providing essential training and resources, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency. Through stories like Sofia’s, we see how the WAVE project not only helps individuals build successful businesses but also creates safer, more supportive communities. Sofia’s journey is an inspiring reminder of the strength that comes from determination and the importance of empowering women to change their lives for the better.
Rudo’s Journey to Independence
The WAVE project is a collaborative initiative implemented by the Family Support Trust (FST), Adult Rape Clinic (ARC)and Nzeve Deaf Centre. The word stands for Women Against Violence through Empowerment. It focuses on empowering those who have experienced sexual and gender-based violence as a means of reducing further revictimization, continued emotional abuse, stigmaand discrimination, among others. The project is being implemented in Mutare district, Manicaland province, where gender-based violence is rife. Rudo’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Once trapped in a cycle of physical abuse from her alcoholic husband, Rudo faced immense challenges managing a household on a single income. The financial stress compounded her difficulties, making it nearly impossible to envision a way out. Determined to change her situation, Rudo sought help from the Family Support Trust (FST) through a community care worker. This connection led her to the clinic for counselling services. Although she was hesitant to involve the police—fearing potential retaliation from her husband—Rudo knew she needed support. In January 2023, Rudo visited the clinic and was assessed and enrolled WAVE project, which offers training in essential livelihood skills. Despite her husband’s initial disapproval of taking part in the training, Rudo remained steadfast in her resolve. By September 2023, she was enrolled on cobra making by Family Support Trust. As she developed her skills and began earning an income, Rudo’s husband started to notice the positive changes in their household. This newfound financial contribution fostered a sense of respect and collaboration between them, leading to a decrease in quarrels and abuse. Today, Rudo proudly runs her own small business, which not only provides her with financial support but also empowers her to take charge of her life. Initially unsure of the impact this would have, she soon realized its significance. “I now have a reliable source of income from selling floor polish, which allows me to provide for my family,” she shared. The financial stability she gained transformed her relationship with her husband. With reduced stress over money, their conflicts diminished, creating a more peaceful home. “I am incredibly grateful for the WAVE project that taught me these valuable skills, enabling me to support my family,” Rudo expressed. The WAVE project plays a crucial role in empowering women like Rudo by equipping them with the skills needed for economic independence. By enhancing their financial stability, the project not only reduces dependence on partners but also significantly lowers the risk of gender-based violence (GBV). Rudo’s success story, along with others like hers, highlights the transformative power of the WAVE project, showing how it fosters resilience, improves relationshipsand contributes to safer, more empowered communities.
Manicaland Agricultural Show
From September 19 to 21, 2024, the vibrant city of Mutare came alive for the Manicaland Agricultural Show, an event that united organisations committed to transforming lives and strengthening communities. Among them was the WAVE Project, implemented by Family Support Trust (FST) in partnership with the Adult Rape Clinic and the Nzeve Deaf Centre. The team was excited to engage the public, share success storiesand raise awareness about the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The opening day was filled with anticipation as the FST team set up an eye-catching exhibition stand that showcased the life-changing impact of the WAVE Project. Though visitor traffic was light at first — as is common on opening day — the team used the time to connect with other organisations and stakeholders working in related fields. Many visitors showed great interest in the handcrafted items created by women trained through the WAVE Project, recognising them as symbols of empowerment and resilience. These interactions opened doors to promising partnerships that could expand the project’s reach and impact. The second day saw a surge in visitors, particularly students and teachers eager to learn more about issues surrounding SGBV and disability inclusion. The team facilitated meaningful conversations about collaboration, preventionand protection, inspiring educators to integrate these vital topics into school programmes. Many teachers expressed interest in partnering with the WAVE Project to promote child safety and awareness — a powerful sign of shared responsibility for shaping safer communities. As the final day unfolded, the FST team continued to engage visitors despite the excitement of the show’s closing activities. Representatives from Diamond FM and The Manica Post visited the stand to explore opportunities for future collaboration, underscoring the media’s essential role in amplifying awareness about SGBV. A proud highlight of the event was Family Support Trust receiving a certificate for securing second place among NGO exhibitions — a well-deserved recognition of the team’s creativity, dedicationand passion for advocacy. The Manicaland Agricultural Show was more than just an exhibition — it was a celebration of partnership, learningand collective action. Each conversation, questionand handshake strengthened our resolve to continue raising awareness and creating safe spaces for survivors of gender-based violence. As the WAVE Project moves forward, we remain committed to fostering a society where every voice is heard, every survivor is supportedand every community is empowered to say no to gender-based violence.
16 days of Activism commemoration at Women’s University in Africa
On the 29th of November and the 1st of December in 2023, the Family Support Trust participated in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, hosted at Women’s University in Africa Manresa and Marondera campuses. The Women’s University in Africa organised the event, with the primary objective of launching and commemorating the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Several organisations participated in the seminar, including the Deaf Zimbabwe Trust, the Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association (ZWLA), the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Zimbabwe, Childline, and the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC). The seminar allowed different organisations to share information related to their respective organisations through a panel discussion. The discussion covered a wide range of topics related to gender-based violence, and each organisation discussed the work they were doing to combat the issue. The event was well-attended and provided a platform for participants to network and collaborate on future initiatives. The Family Support Trust Harare clinic manager, Joyce Murwisi delivered a presentation on the medical and psycho-social support services that FST provides to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Subsequently, a question-and-answer session was conducted to evaluate the student’s knowledge of sexual and gender-based violence. During this segment, Alice Muridzo posed questions, and those who answered correctly were rewarded with prizes, thereby enhancing the audience’s enthusiasm to participate and learn. On the second day of the commemorations held on the 1st of December, Emildah Munjoro led the questions and answers segment. Students who were the main participants who provided correct answers were awarded prizes. The Marondera campus students enacted a play that resonated around gender-based violence and the services available to survivors of SGBV.
Commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Hauna, Mutasa District
On November 26th, 2023, Family Support Trust (FST), together with partners Adult Rape Clinic and Nzeve Deaf Centre, proudly joined the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Hauna, Mutasa District. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, marked the beginning of a nationwide campaign dedicated to ending violence against women and children. Held under the theme “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Children,” the launch brought together government officials, community members, and various organisations working to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV). The atmosphere was one of unity, reflection, and shared commitment to creating safer communities for all. As part of the WAVE Consortium, Family Support Trust, Adult Rape Clinic, and Nzeve Deaf Centre showcased their ongoing work in supporting survivors and preventing GBV. Visitors to the consortium’s stand learned about the wide range of services available — from medical and psycho-social support to awareness and inclusion initiatives such as sign language interpretation for deaf survivors. The event also offered a platform to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and reinforce the message that ending GBV requires collective action and sustained investment. Representatives from numerous organisations and ministries expressed appreciation for the consortium’s contributions to national GBV response efforts. In recognition of its exceptional dedication and impact, Family Support Trust was honoured with a Certificate of Appreciation, presented by the Honourable Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, and Small and Medium Enterprises Development. This recognition underscores FST’s continued commitment to empowering survivors, promoting prevention, and advocating for a violence-free society.
Strengthening Support Systems for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence: Handover of the One One-Stop Centre at Mpilo Hospital
On the 25th of April 2023, Family Support Trust (FST) proudly handed over the newly constructed One Stop Centre building at Mpilo Central Hospital to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development and the Ministry of Health and Child Care. The construction of this state-of-the-art facility was made possible through the generous support of the Embassy of Japan in Zimbabwe (在ジンバブエ日本国大使館). This milestone marks an important step forward in expanding access to comprehensive and survivor-focused services for victims of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Bulawayo and surrounding communities. The One Stop Centre will provide a safe and confidential environment where survivors can access integrated medical, psycho-socialand legal support services under one roof. It aims to reduce the trauma survivors often face when seeking help from multiple service points, ensuring timely and compassionate care. Through this initiative, Family Support Trust continues to strengthen national efforts in preventing and responding to SGBV, while fostering partnerships that uphold the rights, dignityand well-being of women, childrenand all vulnerable groups.