Siyakhulisana : making a difference one stitch at a time!

The Mid Kwa Zulu Natal Division has initiated the Siyakhulisana Sewing project, a programme aimed at empowering youth and women within the Division. The project commenced at Imbali Corps in November, with participants learning the fundamentals of sewing, including design, patterns, cutting, and stitching over the course of six months. The ultimate goal is to enable them to embark on ventures that sustain their livelihoods upon completing the programme.

Currently, a diverse group of individuals, ranging from young women to the elderly, including one man, are actively participating in the project. The project currently has 15 individuals who share the 10 machines provided by The Salvation Army for the initiative. The Corps Officers aspire to expand the group by adding another 5 participants, bringing the total to 20 individuals equipped and empowered in this initial training period.

Lieutenant Gcobani Makebesana, the Corps Officer, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting its significance not only as community engagement but also as an opportunity to address the unemployment and poverty contributing to challenges like drug abuse and crime among the youth. Lieutenant Makebesana remarked, “This project brings hope to families and older individuals who may no longer find employment.”

The Corps Officers at Imbali Corps conveyed deep gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve their community in this impactful way. They also expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Southern Africa Territory’s Women’s Ministries, who generously funded this initiative.

The name of the sewing project, “Siyakhulisana,” signifies growing together, aligning with the Territorial Theme of growing side by side. The Mid Kwa Zulu Natal Division is trusting that this project will forge a collaborative effort between The Salvation Army and communities, working side by side to make a positive and transformative impact in the lives of many.

Is your Corps currently involved in community engagement? Is there a project that your Corps is doing, or would like to do, to impact and empower your community? Share in the comments below … we would love to hear from you!