Stories & blogs - Post
03
JunGaudensia lives in Singida, Tanzania, where almost a third of people in rural areas live below the extreme poverty line.
In January 2024, she joined Hand in Hand’s programme in the hope of turning her talent for designing and making batik fabrics into a business.
Guided by Hand in Hand trainers, she learned the financial and marketing skills she needed to succeed.
From these small beginnings, her reputation spread far beyond her village. Within a year, her monthly income had increased from $35 to $233.
“It is like my life was in the dark before I joined Hand in Hand. I didn’t know how to use my talent and what I had despite being trained. I am now known by many people, I get money from what I know and the skills I have.”
“I was no longer just a batik-making artist; I have become a symbol of resilience and creativity in my community.”
Her success has transformed family life too. Her husband, Joshua, who always believed in her talent, now actively supports the business, helping her source materials and meet growing demand.
Gaudensia’s ambitions continue to grow. She dreams of opening a shop where she can sell her designs not only in her village, but across Tanzania. She also hopes to establish a training centre where women and young people can learn the art of batik making.
“I want to run a successful business and for my products to go outside my country. I want to be an example to women in my village and for young people to learn from me.”
