February was a big month for us. God has been so very kind to us in our efforts to empower and serve our community! On Monday morning, as Capetonians across the city started their week with bleary eyes and coffee, something far more exciting was brewing at our HQ in Phillippi: We unveiled our new salon training space.

We’ve been so excited to unveil the brand new Hope and Beauty Training Centre to you, and, more importantly, to the women who will be impacted through the training.

Palesa Tembe, a well-known South African TV personality and committed Hope Africa advocate, shared with the students and staff. She challenged us to interrogate what really matters in life and how we perceive success. Having come from a community very similar to Philippi, her message was just right for the crowd.

Equipped to train 14 students at a time, with ample space for 14 models from the community for the students to practice on, the centre has a solar-powered geyser (hot water heater) and has already ushered in the class of 2019. To date, 60+ women have completed the training course — a number we hope to see skyrocket now that we have this increased capacity for upskilling. This space has us dreaming BIG and we’re not alone. Our students are brimming with enthusiasm and hope for their future careers and business plans.

Interested in finding out more about our Hope and Beauty Training Centre and economic empowerment initiative? Meet Veve, who has completed the training and opened her very own salon »

Through your support, there will be more women than ever equipped and empowered to provide for their families. Your donations give the matchless gift of hope.