Aron Mathatsa

One of the moments I still remember was when we were taught about advertising our businesses which included having business cards. I laughed because I always thought that business cards were for rich people and not ordinary people like us. After the workshops I went to the council and registered to be assisted with sewing machines. As we speak the dream I have had for a long time of being a tailor was finally realised.
I attended all the trainings offered by Gender Links from 2013. I had a great challenge in using a computer and accessing e-mail as I had never used them before. I am still not perfect in those but at least I have a clue on how to use them. I was especially fascinated by how the lessons helped us to draw business plans as it really helped me to get assistance from council.

I used to make reed baskets but I now make clothing for both men and women. The workshops offered helped in opening my eyes and seeking assistance. Council then took me to a course on sewing various items. Since Gender Links had taught me the importance of saving money I opened a savings account with the post office where I bank all my profits.
Yes I will not deny that I was abused but that is part of my past now and I have learnt a lot from the abuse. Through love and support from my children and family the abuse has significantly reduced and there is peace in the household. I owe the change to the “I stories” that I wrote through GL as it helped me start the healing process as well as the entrepreneurship lessons as they helped me regain control of my life. Sharing experiences with others and also sharing with my partner and children what GL was teaching us positively transformed my life. I believe that when we work together we can end gender based violence and when we become financially independent abuse is reduced.
The women around me have started noticing change in my life and they really admire me for taking a step to change my life. My community encourages me and some see me as a role model. I will continue to use the knowledge gained from GL to grow my business and also seek tenders from various people and organisations including government departments. I intend on continuing to save and expand my business.
In 2030 I wish to see my business being counted among the medium to large scale businesses in the Chobe area and around Botswana.