Women’s Empowerment: Stitch of Hope Project
The Stitch of Hope Project is one of Ethika Foundation’s proudest initiatives — a program designed to empower women and girls through practical skills, dignity, and opportunity. Initially focused on teaching participants how to produce reusable menstrual pads, the project evolved over its 12-week duration into a broader tailoring and craftsmanship program, equipping participants with the ability to produce reusable pads, clothing, school products, and fabric accessories
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This transformation allowed participants not only to address menstrual health challenges in their communities but also to expand their skills into new income-generating areas. By the end of the program, participants had mastered essential sewing and design techniques, turning the project into a true model of sustainable empowerment.
The project was fully funded by Ethika Foundation, with valuable preparatory support from the Uganda Ministry of Water and Environment, under the guidance of Hon. Aisha Sekindi. Her ministry’s contribution helped ensure smooth coordination, local engagement, and visibility for the initiative.
Training was conducted in four centers across Kalungu District, Uganda, reaching more than 400 participants. After completion, a competition and skills assessment were held to identify the most outstanding trainees. As a result, 60 sewing machines were awarded to 60 winners, enabling them to start small businesses and continue applying their newly acquired skills independently.
The program concluded with an inspiring closing ceremony graced by Hon. Aisha Sekindi, who delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the achievements of the trainees and Ethika Foundation’s commitment to women’s empowerment. In a remarkable highlight of the ceremony, all participants proudly wore clothing they had made themselves during the program a living display of confidence, creativity, and self-reliance.
