Pamoja Tailor Shop

Waterbrook Hills provided start-up funds for the Pamoja Tailoring Shop in Kwale in order to create a secure workplace to support certificate-holding graduates of vocational programs.  The funds purchased 5 sewing machines, start-up materials and equipment for the shop, and rent for the first 6 months of the business.

The tailors provide finished garments for sale in Kwale.  They are currently producing school uniforms for several local schools including Jameelah’s Vineyard Academy and the Pamoja Children’s Centre.  This project is yielding a self-sustaining business that provides ongoing employment and support for women and their children as well as funding for the Jameelah’s Vineyard Academy and the Pamoja Children’s Centre.

After completing their training, graduates sit for the Kenyan National Tailor Exam.  Though the program has successfully graduated a number of nationally certified tailors, most of the graduates have had difficulty garnering sewing machines, materials, space rent, and other necessary resources to secure a living wage with their sewing and garment making skills. The Pamoja tailor Shop has provided needed resources to become a self-sustaining business.