Born and raised in Jamaame Khadijo Hassan is a mother full of potential, hard work and belief. However, the increasing insecurity in her hometown forced her to be displaced by insurgent to Kismayo ten years ago. As a mother of seven, Khadijo encountered significant challenges after her move , the vibrant community she had known was replaced by uncertainty and the struggle to find stability in Kismayo. Nevertheless, she was determined to create a better life for her children. With dreams of entrepreneurship in her heart, Khadijo turned to a familiar avenue of selling vegetables.
The vegetable selling business was a business tied to her roots, relying on the fresh produce that once flourished. But as the years rolled on, the previously reliable supply began to falter. “The delay in the arrival of new vegetables became a consistent challenge,” she remembers, a hint of sorrow in her voice. Adverse market conditions, compounded by delays and disruptions in transport, made it increasingly difficult to obtain fresh stock. “As I struggled to maintain my business, I realized I couldn’t rely on a market that was becoming erratic,” she explains. “The joy of selling vegetables slowly faded, and I had to quit.
In her moments of despair, fate intervened through the support of ADRA Somalia’s Action to Strengthen Partnership for Inclusion, Resilience and Education (ASPIRE) Project.When she learned about the training programs offered by the ASPIRE Project, Khadijo felt a flicker of hope reignite within her. She eagerly enrolled at the Kismayo Technical Institute, where she would acquire valuable skills in tailoring.
The six-month journey was transformative for Khadijo. The technical institute staff, particularly Mr. Bashir Abukar Maalim, the supervisor played a pivotal role in her development. “Our aim at Kismayo Technical Institute is not just to teach skills, but also to empower individuals like Khadijo to change their lives,” Mr. Bashir remarked. “We provide practical skills that lead to sustainable livelihoods, and Khadijo is a perfect example of that.”
After completing her training, Khadijo was presented with a sewing machine by ADRA, along with the materials necessary to establish her business from home. “When I received the sewing machine and some clothing materials, it felt like a new beginning,” she expressed with a smile. “I had everything I needed to start my own tailoring business.”
Khadijo then began producing garments for children aged between 4 to 6 years old. The first items she created were simple Somali dresses but over time her skills improved allowing her to experiment with different styles and patterns. “Starting with just a few materials, I put all my heart into each piece I made. I wanted to ensure that every child wearing my clothes felt special,” Khadijo explained.
Through hard work and determination Khadijo found herself gradually building a successful business. “On my worst days, I make about 4 USD, but on good days, that can reach up to 10 USD,” she reported, clearly proud of her accomplishments. These earnings provided her family with essential support. “This income has allowed me to take care of my children’s needs, and it’s a relief knowing I can provide for them,” she added.
The home-based business model allowed Khadijo to balance her responsibilities as a mother while pursuing her aspirations. “I can work at home, which is essential for me as I have little kids who need my attention,” she noted, reflecting on how the business provided not only financial stability but also the comfort of being present for her children as they grew.
As her tailoring business began to flourish, the support from her community in Kismayo became increasingly significant. “My community has been incredibly supportive; they trust my work, and I am proud to provide a service that they need,” she said. Her reputation started to grow, and it was clear that Khadijo was on a path towards becoming a recognized tailor in the area.
Khadijo envisioned greater growth for her business and dreamed of making it more prominent in the community. “In the future, I look forward to expanding my business,” she declared with determination. “I want to have several machines and train as many people as I can, so they, too, can believe in their skills and create a better life for themselves.”
Khadijo Hassan’s journey is a testament to the extraordinary power of resilience, education, and determination. Through the skills she acquired and the support from organizations like ADRA Somalia and Kismayo Technical Institute, she not only overcomes personal challenges but also shapes the narrative of her community. Her sewing machine is more than just a tool , it embodies her renewed spirit and her unwavering commitment to creating a better life for herself and her children.
