by Leslie Janoe, AWC Amsterdam (from material shared by Peninah Musyimi, Director of Safe Spaces)
Just how important has the auto mechanics training program at Safe Spaces been? Find out in the words of Stacy, a program participant:
My name is Stacy. I am 22 years old. I live with my diabetic mum in Mathare. I have three siblings. I joined the Safe Spaces Auto Mechanics program in 2022 and graduated in December 2023 with a diploma in Auto Mechanics. I got a job at Auto Express company in January 2024 and I have been working there [since then]. Studying this male-dominated skill built my confidence and self esteem, and I felt strong and visible from the vulnerability of poverty and a sick mum. I earn good money and am planning to move to my house in 2026. [I] am helping my sick mum and educating my siblings, who are also members of Safe Spaces. I also mentor other new girls who joined [the] mechanics program every Friday. If it were not for Safe Spaces, my life would have been very sad and hopeless, and I don't know if my mum would have been alive, because she couldn't afford medication. Thank you, Safe Spaces, for changing my life and believing in me. Thank you for giving me an opportunity to earn and be self reliant; you made me believe in myself more. #I am the change. (This quote has been edited for spelling and grammar.)
