Graduate Spotlight: Once isolated, Sheliza finds community, career pathways through RefuSHE
Sheliza, 21, arrived in Nairobi four years ago after fleeing her home country of Burundi. She did not know a single person in her new city and had no connections to education or career opportunities. She felt a deep sense of isolation and felt uncertain about her future.
She befriended a neighbor who, knowing Sheliza's love of fashion, referred her to RefuSHE’s Fashion and Design Program. Sheliza was accepted into the 9-month program despite having little prior experience in sewing or design. She describes this opportunity as life-changing, marking the beginning of a new chapter and providing her with skills and hope for a better future.
At RefuSHE, Sheliza learned how to operate a sewing machine and transform fabric into finished garments. She describes completing her first full garment independently as a moment of pride, realizing her ability to create something of value with her own hands. Her instructor describes her as a highly motivated and enthusiastic student.
Beyond technical skills, the program provided mentorship and peer support, helping her build confidence. She also gained knowledge in business, teamwork, and resource management. In addition to attending Fashion & Design class, Sheliza also received mental health support on our campus, which has helped her heal from the trauma she's experienced during her turbulent childhood.
Sheliza recently completed an internship at a local tailoring shop and graduated earlier this month, earning a national certification in tailoring and dressmaking - a critical step towards launching her fashion and design career. She now hopes to establish her own small tailoring business.
“RefuSHE gave me hope, purpose, and a second chance. Because of them, I now believe in my future.”