HOW I GOT TO BUY MY OWN SCHOOL SHOES

Nyasha Alifandika, Form 4 – Epworth High School

MY name is Nyasha Alifandika. I’m 18-years-old and I am a beneficiary of the Junior Achievement Company programme supported by Plan at Epworth High.

I stay with my uncle who was finding it difficult to ensure that I had access to food, education and other needs specific to the girl child that include sanitary wear.

After realising that my uncle is finding it difficult to meet my needs I was not sure where to get support. My hope turned to fruition after I joined the JA Company Programme at school and the Girl Empowerment Programme by JAZ and Plan.

I was trained in life skills and entrepreneurship and the focus was on issues such as confidence, decision making, goal setting, stress management and team work, and capitalisation, managing a business, marketing, identifying and satisfying a need.

This gave me a second chance in life as after training I was inspired to start a business at home. I took advantage of the resources that were available like borehole and land.

I started market gardening after realising that there is a ready market for vegetables.

I grew vegetables of different types like cabbages, rape and covo.

I used $1,50 to purchase seedlings. My uncle supported me with labour where he would water the garden when I am at school. I managed to yield a harvest that gave me a net profit of $50.

I purchased new school shoes as the old pair was worn out and I also purchased stationery, sanitary wear and pants as I was always shy to ask my uncle to buy for me.

I am planning to expand my business especially when I will be waiting for my Ordinary Level results to ensure that I am self sustainable as a girl child.

 

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