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Unleashed catalytic programs have been able to help youth gain confidence, take life positively, be more responsible toward themselves, their community, and toward Africa becoming more honorable and valuable. The youth who were idle embraced leadership by creating initiatives that take care of or employ hundreds of fellow youth and family members, other youths, especially young women have gained confidence which helped them to acquire jobs and make a positive impact.
Delicioso, ignited by two teenage entrepreneurs who participated in UNLEASHED programs, breathes life into local produce. By adding value to grains like soya, rice, millet, and maize, Delicioso produces porridge flour that nourishes both bodies and opportunities. This enterprise isn't just about products—it's about creating a value chain that uplifts. Four women are employed, contributing to the process of turning raw materials into nourishing flour. By embracing local resources and cultivating market linkages, Delicioso exemplifies how entrepreneurship can foster growth and connection.
The Oasis Bakery has become more than a business—it's a cornerstone of the Nakivale community. By producing quality bread, Oasis has made a staple accessible, affordable, and fresh. This enterprise's impact extends beyond its products, as it contributes to the income of 130 shops within Nakivale, providing stability and growth. Employing nine young individuals, The Oasis Bakery is a testament to how entrepreneurial ventures can invigorate communities. Through sustenance and economic opportunities, Oasis has woven itself into the fabric of Nakivale, showcasing the transformative power of business for both individuals and the collective.
In 2021, three visionary scholars, Fabian Shema, Daniella Kengeta, and Wasingya Kipisa, gave life to Ripple Sacco—a cooperative social business with a mission to provide inclusive financial services. Guided by their experience at UNLEASHED, these changemakers embarked on a journey to empower refugees through financial education and savings opportunities. Today, Ripple Sacco is a hub of financial empowerment, serving 400 refugees and host community members. Not only have they instilled the habit of saving in 100 individuals, but they've also enabled 45 members to enhance their businesses through financial education. Ten employees contribute to this growing movement, amplifying the impact of Ripple Sacco's commitment to financial independence.
Patient Baraka became refuge in Uganda in 2016, leaving behind his homeland.
His dream of becoming a medical doctor, inspired by his grandfather, faced challenges as
he grappled with a language barrier and the struggle to catch up with his peers after
joining a secondary school in the refugee settlement. "I lost hope of my dream," he recalls.
In 2018, the horizon opened as UNLEASHED entered the scene of his life, offering empowerment through leadership, entrepreneurship, and business development. Patient seized the opportunity, earning a scholarship that would alter his trajectory. Rediscovering his purpose and guided by business mentors, he embarked on a transformative journey.
Patient's vision converged with his childhood aspirations, leading to the birth of Botanica Repellent. This innovative social business produces a mosquito-repellent jelly crafted from organic ingredients, capable of repelling mosquitoes for over six hours. Botanica. has got awards such as the Social Impact Award, Wezesha Impact Award, SUN Family Pitch Event, Shine Grant, Because International Award, and Global Refugee Youth Network recognition and have rised more than 25,000 USD and his business employing more than 8 full time employees and 4 part-timers.
Bahati Buhendwa's journey was rife with uncertainty and unfulfilled potential. Dropping out of school, he found solace in the melody of music and dance. Yet, his future remained clouded, and his self-identity wasn't clear. UNLEASHED entered Bahati's life as a beacon of transformation, helping him uncover the power of his talents and their potential to shape lives. Guided by the empowerment received from UNLEASHED, Bahati initiated the Refugees Global Talent initiative in 2018, and since then he committed to nurturing the talents of fellow youth. Through Bahati's efforts, three impactful festivals blossomed within refugee settlements, uniting over 6,000 people. With newfound confidence, he now navigates conversations with business leaders, discussing opportunities for young refugee talents.
Born in Uganda but a refugee from Rwanda, Fabian embarked on a journey of education, attaining a bachelor's degree in Social Sciences. His path was marked by a quest for opportunities. In the midst of uncertainities, Fabian joined UNLEASHED, seeking to enhance his business acumen and support his father's school. However, UNLEASHED did more than he anticipated. It transformed Fabian's perspective, unlocking a world of opportunities previously unseen. This shift in mindset led to the creation of Ripple Sacco, a refugee-focused financial services enterprise, tailored for the Nakivale population. Fabian's journey transformed learning through action, as he transitioned from theory to the startup phase, equipping himself with indispensable life skills and business knowledge. Ripple Sacco is serving more than 1000 refugees and is employing 7 staff.