By Aaron Cordy
AN ECHO of hope can reverberate through the world to enrich and transform the lives of those it touches. It is this idea of helping people through education and employment that led Masomo Mbele – School First Foundation, through its Echo Hope Programs (EHP) to launch the Women’s Empowerment Project (WEP).
WEP helps refugees, Australian-born, and individuals from the broader community to integrate into the Australian workforce and society more effectively. By equipping women and young girls, people with disability, and individuals facing social exclusion with relevant skills, such as literacy, numeracy and sewing to empower them to contribute to economic development and actively participate in their new communities.
“Our Theory of Change: Echo Hope Project’s Skills Building Knowledge Program invests in women and young girls’ economic development to create a ripple effect of empowerment in communities. By providing skills, knowledge, employment opportunities and pathways, networks, mentoring and leadership capabilities,” said founder and director of Masomo Mbele, Declo Bisimwa.
EHP has teamed up with Greater Shepparton Secondary College to hold classes on every Monday from 4pm to 6pm at the Hawdon Street campus. They have put a call out for volunteers to get involved and help change lives.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our sponsors and project funded such as Greater Shepparton City Council, Empowering Communities, Department of Justice and Community Safety, VIC State Government and Greater Shepparton Secondary College for providing us with a safe and inclusive environment, to our amazing volunteers and everyone involved for making this project happen,” said Declo.
“Please join and help us make the Greater Shepparton community safe, embrace a rich diversity that creates harmony, inclusivity, and equity for a better future for all. We are seeking donations of brand-new or second-hand sewing machines or fabrics.
“Your support can change lives and your contribution to our Foundation and the Greater Shepparton community will be greatly appreciated.”
To find out more or get involved with EHP call 0459 999 813, email masomombelefoundation@gmail.com, or follow Masomo Mbele on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.
