Empowering young women at the kasiConomy Hub.
Masifunde started in 2009 with a simple vision: to make lasting change possible in underserved communities. Over the years, a small initiative has evolved into the Change Maker Hub – a vibrant network that offers preschool and after-school learning, vocational pathways, and, since 2024, the kasiConomy Hub. Through these programs, MASIFUNDE strives to link education with empowerment and build economic resilience for generations to come.
Townships like Walmer are economically highly marginalized. Women in particular are affected by poverty due to gender inequality and youth unemployment (over 60%) and mostly work in the informal sector. The kasiConomy Hub addresses this and offers practical alternatives for independence and participation. In the long term, the model is to be implemented in other townships.
The kasiConomy Hub was founded in 2024 by Masifunde to support young people – especially women – in the Walmer Township (Gqeberha) in setting up their own businesses. The focus is on crafts, fashion, jewelry and event management. The center serves as both a start-up center and training facility, creating prospects for financial independence and strengthening local economic growth.
Each year, 80 school leavers receive practical vocational training that teaches both technical and social skills. In addition, 10 female entrepreneurs per year are accepted into a 12- to 24-month program that promotes their entrepreneurial skills with mentoring, training and networking. Products can be sold directly in the affiliated shop – 100% of the proceeds go to the producers.
The Lemonaid & ChariTea Foundation supports the project by financing personnel, materials, operating costs and training courses.
Sandisiwe Kiti
Email
Website: https://www.masifunde.de/de
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Masifunde
