July 19, 12:00

Sewing training program helps survivors of human trafficking rebuild their lives

Four individuals who survived human trafficking and gender-based violence have begun a transformative journey through professional sewing training provided by the social enterprise Not I But We in Cape Town.

The Path to Independence Through Skills

As they acquire necessary skills, three program graduates have moved into paid internships, opening the door to self-sufficiency and sustainable employment. This initiative addresses two critical issues faced by survivors: creating safe exit routes from shelters and ensuring access to decent job opportunities that support long-term recovery.

Damian Yutzi, Development Manager at Not I But We, emphasized that the program goes beyond simple skills training—it aims to help survivors rebuild their lives. He stated that it is an intensive one-month course where participants learn the basics, ranging from operating sewing machines and straight line embroidery to producing simple items.

For many survivors, securing employment is a vital step after experiencing violence and exploitation. Yutzi warned that if survivors lack a clear plan for leaving safe houses, they remain at risk of re-entering exploitative or abusive situations.

Internships and Long-Term Goals

The transition from training to paid internships marks a significant milestone for participants, some of whom are encountering the workplace environment for the first time. Yutzi noted that since the internship is paid, for some survivors, it is their first job and the next stage on the path to a life free from exploitation and based on self-reliance.

The full program, which includes sewing training and an internship, lasts six months and focuses on both technical skills and work readiness. Upon completion of this period, according to Yutzi, all survivors gain the necessary soft and hard skills for employment, either within the social enterprise or externally.

Overcoming Labor Market Barriers

However, survivors often face serious obstacles when trying to enter the workforce, including trauma, limited education levels, resume gaps, and difficulties finding work in a complex labor market. Yutzi stated that the combination of trauma, lack of education, and high unemployment creates huge barriers for survivors seeking and retaining jobs. This is why the organization offers them an exit strategy from shelters and a path to a sustainable lifestyle.

Psychological and Management Support

The program also provides emotional support through a trauma-informed approach, ensuring participants receive support throughout the process. Yutzi specified that a safe, trauma-aware space is provided, featuring a program manager who is a qualified social worker, as well as a volunteer psychologist who visits the group weekly.

A key achievement for Not I But We is that production is entirely managed by the survivors themselves, allowing participants to develop beyond entry-level roles. Yutzi expressed commitment to offering leadership roles along with the necessary support through mentorship and coaching for women in the programs.

Social Enterprise and Prospects

Unlike traditional skills training programs, this organization operates as a social enterprise where survivors can gain real work experience and potentially secure long-term employment. Yutzi stressed the importance that this is not just a skills training program, but a thriving business capable of offering jobs to survivors after the course is completed. Survivors can acquire skills, gain experience for their resumes, and eventually move into leadership positions, improving their chances in the labor market.

Currently, the organization is appealing to businesses and community members to support its activities by expanding sales and creating additional jobs. For more information, contact Yutzi at 066 408 6656 or via email at damian@notibutwe.com.

iol.co.zaJuly 14, 15:26

Migration in South Africa: A Love Story and the Need for Economic Opportunities

The story of one woman attempting to reunite with her partner across borders highlights the complex picture of migration processes in South Africa. This region stands at a crossroads, raising the question of the necessity to join forces to create conditions that allow people to remain in their home countries.

Attempted Reunion and Immigration Challenges

Amidst the flows of migrants between South Africa and its neighboring countries, a story linked to love unfolded. A woman from KwaZulu-Natal, wishing to stay with her partner from Malawi, attempted to cross the border under a false identity, but her plan failed.

When she arrived at the temporary repatriation point in Musina, she presented herself as Malawian. However, after questioning by Malawian officials, her story began to unravel. As a result, authorities returned her to South Africa, where her true identity was discovered, and hopes of reuniting with her partner through voluntary repatriation were dashed.

Pressure on Governments and Economic Realities

Governments are facing increasing pressure regarding the resolution of complex immigration issues. The South African government has already repatriated 53,449 foreign nationals, the majority of whom are Malawians.

As protests related to repatriation subside, more measured voices are being heard across the continent. It is encouraging to see the discussion moving beyond strong emotions and focusing on the economic aspects at stake. One woman from Zimbabwe recently stated in a podcast that millions of Africans migrate in search of work, security, education, or better economic prospects.

Call for Regional Cooperation

She supported the view that if more countries offer stronger economies, better governance, reliable public services, and opportunities for youth, many would prefer to build their future at home. It was noted that South Africa should not bear this burden alone. The entire continent must participate in solving the problem: African governments, regional bodies like the African Union, businesses, and communities all play a role in building a future where migration is a choice, not a last resort.

African leaders are called upon to take decisive steps to open doors of opportunity across the continent. The continent cannot continue to boast of its rich mineral wealth while so many people suffer from poverty and seek hope elsewhere. The time has come to address these issues.

By investing in agriculture and manufacturing, and prioritizing skills development for youth, African governments can lay the foundation for sustainable employment and a prosperous future. Policymakers must strive for improved governance and greater transparency in resource management so that the continent's mineral wealth truly contributes to the upliftment of its population. By supporting regional economic integration, investing in infrastructure, and expanding access to quality education and healthcare, Africa can become a place where people thrive without needing to leave.