In the heart of Malawi, three determined women Besain’t In Green, Grace, and Ruth Bazale are living proof that empowerment knows no boundaries.
Each of them faced challenges that once made daily life a struggle. Grace and Ruth, both women living with disabilities, had endured years of hardship. Finding stable income was almost impossible, and providing for their children’s basic needs was a constant battle. Despite their circumstances, they held on to hope believing that one day, things could change.
That change came when they joined FESODEV’s Tailoring and Fashion Design Training Program, part of the organization’s broader effort to equip women and youth with practical, income-generating skills. The program aimed to empower vulnerable individuals — including those with disabilities to become self-reliant through vocational training and entrepreneurship.
Under the guidance of dedicated instructors, Besain’t, Grace, and Ruth learned how to design, measure, cut, and sew with precision. But beyond learning technical skills, they discovered confidence, creativity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
“Before this training, I depended on others,” Grace shared. “Now, I can earn my own money, support my children, and dream again.”
When the program came to an end, all three women proudly graduated with Certificates of Attendance — a powerful symbol of their determination and resilience. To help them start their own businesses, FESODEV presented each of them with start-up sewing machines, ensuring they could continue earning income from their new skills.
“I used to struggle even to buy soap for my children,” said Ruth. “Now I make and sell clothes in my community. I am independent, and people look up to me.”
Today, Besain’t, Grace, and Ruth are not only skilled tailors but also role models in their community proving that disability is not inability. Their success represents what FESODEV stands for: creating inclusive opportunities where everyone, regardless of background or ability, can thrive.
Empowerment Without Barriers
Through programs like the Tailoring and Fashion Design Project, FESODEV continues to promote social inclusion by providing vocational skills to marginalized groups, including women living with disabilities.
With support, mentorship, and the right tools, these women have transformed their lives moving from dependency to dignity, and from struggle to success.
Through a needle and thread, they’ve stitched a future filled with hope, pride, and possibility.
