On 22nd August 2025, St Peter’s Kubatana High School, Zimbabwe in collaboration with the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN), celebrated the graduation of 60 women and girls who successfully completed a three-week skills development program under the Building Resilience in Women and Girls in Africa (BRWGA) initiative.

The program, designed to break cycles of poverty and vulnerability, equipped participants with hands-on skills in Garment Manufacturing, Professional Cookery, and Entrepreneurship. With the support of AJAN, the school upgraded its facilities with modern equipment—gas stoves, fridges, sewing and overlock machines—ensuring quality training for the women and girls.

At the graduation ceremony, the participants expressed both joy and gratitude. Rumbi (25) reflected on her new opportunities:
“I find hope in the practical skills learnt. I can now start projects making pastries and cakes for sale.”

For Tanatswa (32), a young mother of two, the skills gained mean a brighter future for her family:
“The training will allow me to make uniforms for my children and even fashion clothes. This program was really hands-on. I thank St Peter’s Kubatana and AJAN.”

The graduation marked more than just the end of a training program—it was the beginning of new possibilities. These women are now equipped to start small businesses, support their families, and contribute positively to the wider community. Indirectly, the project has already touched the lives of over 260 people, amplifying its impact.

St Peter’s Kubatana expressed its gratitude to AJAN for their investment in empowering women and girls and looks forward to continued collaboration to expand such opportunities in the future.

By, Fr. Ashton I Mugozhi, SJ.

Director, St Peter’s Kubatana High School, Zimbabwe.