Francinah Tharape

In the lessons I have learned from the workshops I attended were how to starting small business and how to grow it. I have gained knowledge of starting a business before I started with the business. And I will market my business correctly before opening it and in that way I will know my target market and get the products that are needed in order for my business to grow.
I started attending Gender Links workshops in 2014 and attended all the trainings including the one on abuse. I found all the topics very important and I am inspired to start my business. The only issue I had with the content was with the cash flow but I managed with the help of the facilitator. I had no business and never thought of having one, but now I have gone to the social workers to seek assistance in starting up my own business. I now eagerly wait for the outcomes of my assessment. In the meantime I going to further my studies in business and the council will be paying for me.
I had suffered abuse from my partner, I no longer experience abuse as I took the bold step and left the relationship. I am not involved with any man at the moment and this has made me realise that I can be independent. I help other people in my community who have suffered abuse. My life has changed a lot and I am now a happier person and no longer look down upon myself. I am now able to work temporary jobs offered by Government. I freely associate with others. I realize that financial freedom can set anyone free and reduce abuse in one’s life.
I have now taken it upon myself to teach other women what I have learnt. Whenever there are gatherings in my community I encourage them to be on the lookout for opportunities that may available for women such as what Gender Links is doing for the women who have or are suffering from abuse. We have various organizations which people can be part of, they should not have low self-esteem or give up on life. I want to continue furthering my education and be specific to the business I want to start. By 2030 I want to be a business woman who will be recognised in my region. I want to employ many women.