OPPORTUNITIES FOR MORE YOUTH THROUGH EXPANSION OF SUCCESSFUL VOCATIONAL TRAINING IN MALAWI

In 2017, Gered Gereedschap, Music Crossroads, and Young in Prison joined forces to establish a vocational training program in Lilongwe, Malawi. The goal of this project was clear: to offer young people, including former prisoners, the opportunity to build an independent future through vocational training. What started as a small-scale metalworking course has now grown into a thriving learning center, where young people are given the chance to develop valuable skills every day.

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THE BEGINNING: A SECOND CHANCE FOR FORMER PRISONERS

Initially, the training program focused on former prisoners, who struggled to rebuild their lives after release. Thanks to the collaboration, these young people were able to learn the skills necessary to succeed as metalworkers or welders.

Gladson Msendera, Head of Training at Music Crossroads, says: “We wanted to give these young people a real chance at a stable future. The success of the metalworking course proves that everyone deserves a second chance. In a short time, more than 360 young people completed the program, and it gained increasing support from the community. Parents approached us because they saw that our training gave their children a real future.”

EXPANSION: MORE VOCATIONAL FIELDS, MORE OPPORTUNITIES

With the growing success of the metalworking program, it was decided in 2020 to expand the program—again with the help of Gered Gereedschap—by adding two more workshops: a metal workshop and a combined tailoring and shoemaking workshop. These workshops were set up with shipping containers, fully equipped by Gered Gereedschap with the necessary tools, machines, and sewing machines.

Gayighayi Mathews Mfune, Director, proudly says: “Our new workshops have allowed us to reach even more young people. We are now not only training metalworkers but also tailors and shoemakers. We teach them all the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to build an independent life. This gives the young people more choices and more opportunities for a self-sufficient future.”

PERSONAL STORIES OF SUCCESS

The personal stories of young people whose lives have changed thanks to the training programs demonstrate the success of the approach. Xecrainour KalimBira, a tailoring student, says: “This training is perfect for me. It is affordable, and I am learning a lot in a short time. Soon, I want to open my own sewing studio.”

Kondwani Kamwendo, a metalworking student, also shares his experience: “After being unemployed for four years, the training gave me hope again. I now have the skills to start my own workshop and help other young people.”

The teachers see daily how the students grow in their craft. Anderson Bernard, a metalworking instructor, notes: “The hands-on approach ensures that our students are ready for the job market. They can start working right away or set up their own businesses.”

COLLABORATION FOR SUSTAINABLE CHANGE

The success of this project is due to the collaboration between Gered Gereedschap and Music Crossroads. Through them, young people with no opportunities gain access to vocational training that prepares them for an independent life.

“What is wonderful about this project is that it’s not just about learning a trade,” says Mathews. “It’s about giving these young people a future they can believe in. We not only provide them with skills but also the opportunity to shape their own lives.”

The expansion of the program has had a huge impact on the community in Lilongwe, and thanks to the continued support of sponsors and volunteers, the project is ready to change even more lives.