“My name is Tadiwanashe Mahuda. I’m 23 years old, and I studied Hairdressing at Young Africa.

Before joining, I was just sitting at home doing nothing. As a single mother to a 4-year-old boy, life felt heavy — I had no thoughts of how to generate income. I had no focus, no plan, and no confidence.

Everything changed when I enrolled at Young Africa. I didn’t just learn hairdressing — I learnt Entrepreneurship and joined an ISAL (Internal Savings and Lending) group called Big Five with my classmates. The money I received from the ISAL group helped me start my own business. The entrepreneurship training taught me how to manage that business properly. I now know not to spend money recklessly — instead, I reinvest what I earn to grow.

Life Skills was another turning point. I learnt that I have the right to say no to sex. I now understand and practise my sexual and reproductive health rights. Because of this training, I am confident. I am financially stable. I no longer rely on men or anyone else to survive. I am standing on my own. I want to thank Young Africa for taking us from the lofer life — a life with no direction — to becoming financially independent young women. My dream is to own a big salon and be able to employ other young people. I want to give back the same way someone gave me a chance.”