By Heather Buzuzi
Youth Sustainable Economic Contribution through Up-skilling, Retraining, and Engagement (Y-SECURE project) conducted a groundbreaking knitting dialogue initiative aimed at transforming the lives of women in Mutasa, Ndorikanda Ward 16, providing economic empowerment and social connection through engagement.
The Knitting Dialogue Initiative empowers young women through a safe space for community engagement, enhancing awareness on civic participation, decision making and stakeholder support, and articulating their demands
Y-Secure field officer Nadine Fortunate Black said the Knitting Dialogue Initiative was a project aimed at empowering young women with its primary objective being providing a safe space for engagement with local leaders, enhancing awareness on civic participation and decision-making, securing stakeholder support, and drafting a list of women’s demands in Mutasa District.
“Knitting plays a pivotal role in facilitating dialogue and community building among participants. By engaging in this shared activity, participants relax, build rapport, and foster camaraderie.
“The non-confrontational atmosphere encourages open discussions on sensitive topics, while the tactile nature of knitting promotes active listening and focus. Additionally, learning a new skill empowers participants, boosts confidence, and strengthens social bonds through shared storytelling. The therapeutic benefits of knitting also create a conducive environment for meaningful dialogue, reducing stress and promoting constructive engagement,” Black said.
He said the dialogue created a unique space for young women to discuss freely challenges, share experiences and proffer solutions.
“Through this innovative approach, the Knitting Dialogue Initiative creates a unique space for young women to share experiences, address challenges, and drive positive change in their communities. By leveraging knitting as a facilitation tool, participants also become active agents of transformation, fostering a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and collective Growth,” said Black.
One of the participants, Nelita Chipfuwamiti said the programme was informative as they learnt several ways to generate money.
“The knitting dialogue group has been a game-changer for me. I’ve learned valuable skills, and now we expect to generate a steady income as soon as we start our project,” said Chipfuwamiti.
Another participant and entrepreneur Scharlene Sighudu said after attending the dialogue, she is now confident to start her own business to become financially independent.
“This initiative has given me the confidence to start my own business. I’m proud to be financially independent and contributing to my family’s well-being,” said Sighudu.
