From Refugee to Entrepreneur: Beatrice’s Story

In 2016, due to violence and war, Beatrice Nyangabire and her three siblings were forced to flee their home country of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). She joined RefuSHE’s Girls Empowerment Program (GEP) in 2017 and enrolled in basic education and vocational training courses where she successfully progressed through the grades. In 2021, Beatrice became a member of RefuSHE’s Artisan Collective where she nurtured her creativity and artistic craftsmanship. She enjoys building her skills in tie-and-dye, stitching, and creating beautiful and unique products.

At the start of 2023, Beatrice took part in a business skills training program by 4G Capital to develop her entrepreneurial skills. After successfully completing the training and writing a business plan, she received a KES 15,000 seed grant. She used this grant to set up her own curtain-making business which she operates on weekends. Thanks to 4G Capital, Beatrice was also connected to Linet, an experienced businesswoman with over a decade of expertise in tailoring, who offered to mentor Beatrice.

The mentorship proved invaluable, as Beatrice honed her technical skills, learned how to be resourceful, and gained valuable insights in customer service. With her mentor’s guidance, Beatrice mastered the manual sewing machine and learned how to construct bespoke garments to fit individual specifications. Her mentor also taught her the importance of being friendly and making each customer feel valued.

“Before this mentorship, I lacked the knowledge and confidence to approach customers,” shares Beatrice.

Beatrice also learned how to find quality tailoring materials on a budget and how to manage her supplies wisely. Linet praised Beatrice’s dedication and enthusiasm, describing her as an excellent student. She was impressed by her determination and offered to continue mentoring her beyond the completion of the training program.

In addition to participating in the 4G Capital training program this year, Beatrice partnered with Nairobi-based fashion designer, Sylvia Yegon, for RefuSHE’s Fashion Challenge 2023. Though she is set to exit from RefuSHE’s Artisan Collective at the end of the year, Beatrice intends to devote herself to growing her drapery business and adding skirts and dresses to her production line. Beatrice hopes to open her own shop, get better machinery, and build a thriving fashion empire in the future. With the challenges of her past behind her and an exciting entrepreneurial journey ahead, she is confident she will attain success.

“RefuSHE has taught me many things. I have learned how to tailor, run a business, and save money,” says Beatrice. “With these skills, I know I will thrive in my next chapter.”