THE TEA MAKER
In the bustling heart of Leer County, Unity State, Elizabeth, 28, stands behind the counter of her charming tea shop, gracefully orchestrating the dance of boiling kettles and aromatic tea blends for her cherished customers. Her journey to this point has been a testament to resilience and opportunity, a narrative woven with threads of empowerment and newfound skills.
ELIZABETH AT HER TEA PLACE.
Not long ago, Elizabeth’s aspirations were anchored by the support of her local Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA). Through their guidance and her determination, she diligently saved, inching closer to her dream of owning a business. However, the road ahead seemed daunting, as she initially lacked the expertise to navigate the complexities of running a tea shop.
Hope Restoration South Sudan (HRSS), in collaboration with our UNFPA South Sudan, became the beacon of Elizabeth’s transformational journey. With their unwavering support and tailored training programs acquired at Leer women and girls-friendly spaces, Elizabeth not only acquired the necessary skills but also blossomed into an active leader within her VSLA community. Armed with newfound knowledge and confidence, she took the courageous leap to establish her tea shop—a sanctuary where conversations flow as freely as the tea she brews.
Beyond entrepreneurial success, Elizabeth’s endeavor has unlocked a ripple effect of positive change. Her increased income provides a stable foundation, ensuring she can now save for future emergencies and provide her 7-month-old baby with the care and nourishment every child deserves. Moreover, her family now enjoys a higher quality of life, indulging in nutritious meals made possible by Elizabeth’s hard-earned earnings.
Elizabeth Paying her weekly VSLA membership Fee.
Through the generous partnership with UNFPA South Sudan, funded by the Canada International Development Agency, the impact extends far beyond Elizabeth alone. Over 121 survivors of Rape in Leer and adversity have found hope and the means to rebuild their lives, empowered by access to vital services and renewed opportunities for a brighter future.
Elizabeth Aweck Cham’s story is more than a tale of triumph over adversity it is a testament to the transformative power of support, education, and community empowerment. In her humble tea shop, she not only serves tea but also brews hope, resilience, and a future filled with promise for herself, her family, and her community.