Rosalie smiling while cradling her baby and working within a skills training program in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Credit: Arlette Bashizi/CAFOD
The power to break the cycle of poverty
Rosalie had a childhood that was stripped away when she was forced to become a child soldier. There, she came face to face with the most volatile experiences surrounding gender-based violence and conflict.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, women and children are subject to hardship all too often, creating a cycle of poverty. With the help of skills training, supported by people like you and our partners and Caritas Bukavu, Rosalie was able to use her bravery to overcome adversity. You can empower other women to do the same.
She survived, but you can help her thrive.
Rosalie went from child soldier to:
Entrepreneur
Rosalie, like many other women in DRC, had financial limitations that give her no choice but to become a child soldier. After returning, Rosalie did not have autonomy over her life as she had no qualifications or employment opportunities.
With support from people like you, Rosalie was able to access business training that armed her with the power to choose her future.
This knowledge helped Rosalie to become an entrepreneur, selling second-hand shoes, natural remedies, juice and ice cream.
Community leader
Rosalie’s childhood was stripped away when she was forced to be a child soldier after being unable to afford school. When she returned to society, she experienced prejudice and social isolation.
With support from people like you, Rosalie was able to access social skills training that helped her to understand the importance of community and reintegrate back into society.
Rosalie is now a leader and a role model for ex-combatants. You can help other women create positive change too.
Skills training is key
With your generous help and with the support of local partners on-the-ground, we offer an integrated community development program that can enable people to use their power to rise from adversity.
Activities include:
Rosalie is a leader and role model in Democratic Republic of Congo. Credit: Arlette Bashizi/CAFOD
Protection & re-integration of ex-combatants
Through your support, ex-combatants in the DRC can transition from military to civilian life, with a focus on establishing sustainable livelihoods and living harmoniously in the community.
Rosalie takes part in skills training amongst other women in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Credit: Arlette Bashizi/CAFOD
Saving and internal lending community group (SILC):
Your donation can help women in vulnerable communities learn saving and financial skills and support them to build a business and create a sustainable income.
Your support today can help people with:
Finance management skills
Understand conflict management skills
Entrepreneurship
Accounting skills
Training in sustainable agricultural practices
Optimise health and wellness
“May the Australian people continue to help others as well, so that they can also take care of themselves.”
