When Meaza completed Grade 10 two years ago, she was one of 100 at-risk youth who were selected for the EDA Youth Livelihood program. She was given vocational training in leather work, small business skills and business and personal finance. Meaza used her $750 US seed funding to purchase a leather sewing machine and supplies.


Meaza’s tiny shop has been open for seven months. She creates and sews high-quality, original leather purses, belts and cosmetic bags, which she sells to stores and handicraft shops. The business is already showing a small profit and Meaza is able to support herself and

her mother.

Meaza is pleased with her progress so far: “I’m very happy because I have a new skill and I love my work”.
In the future, Meaza dreams of opening a leather manufacturing business in her name and hiring and training other young people to work along with her.