RUWOYSI logo RUWOYSI Rural Women & Youths Orphanage Support Initiative

Success stories

Real people. Real change. Real communities.

RUWOYSI & CHAI Women Economic Empowerment & Leadership 11 LGAs, Kaduna State

Building Their Own Tables

In many communities across Kaduna State, women possess the drive and the talent, but often lack the structural support to move from the sidelines into decision-making roles. In 2020, RUWOYSI partnered with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to change this narrative — providing the economic foundation for independence and the leadership framework for lasting social influence.

The project reached into the heart of 30 communities across 11 LGAs to spark a leadership revolution:

  • Economic Mastery (WEE): 100 beneficiaries received intensive vocational training and mentorship, turning local talents into sustainable businesses.
  • Leadership & Governance (WiL): 455 strategic participants went through a deep dive into the fundamentals of social influence — advocacy, self-organisation, and navigating governance structures.
Women in Leadership training session in Kaduna State

The result

  • Economic Stability: 100 women now operate with improved financial literacy and business skills, providing a safety net for their families.
  • Voice at the Table: The 455 WiL participants are now equipped to participate in community governance, advocating for health, education and women's rights within their LGAs.
  • Sustainable Mentorship: The original 100 WEE beneficiaries continue to mentor younger women, ensuring the project's impact outlives its timeline.
"We are no longer waiting for a seat at the table. Through this training, we have learned how to build our own tables and invite others to join us." — Project Participant, Kaduna State
Widows Empowerment Project Kaduna, Nigeria

From Struggle to Sustainability: Mama Aisha's Journey

Following the loss of her husband, Mama Aisha found herself the sole provider for her three children. With no formal skills or capital, she struggled to maintain a consistent income — her children's education was frequently interrupted by unpaid school fees, and providing nutritious meals was a daily hurdle.

Mama Aisha was enrolled in the Widows Empowerment Project, designed around two key pillars:

  • Vocational Training: Hands-on training in financial literacy, basic bookkeeping and sustainable agricultural marketing.
  • Startup Capital: A seed grant to launch her own micro-enterprise upon completion of training.
Mama Aisha at her vegetable stall with tomatoes and peppers

Today, Mama Aisha is a thriving entrepreneur, pictured at her well-stocked stall with fresh tomatoes and peppers. The impact reaches far beyond her business:

  • Education: All three of her children are back in school, with all school materials provided on time.
  • Nutrition: A steady income and nutritional education has moved the family from a starch-heavy diet to one balanced with fresh vegetables and protein.
  • Confidence: Mama Aisha now serves as an inspiration to other women in her community.
"I used to wake up wondering how we would survive the day. Now, I wake up thinking about how to grow my business so my children can finish their university education. My hands are busy, and my heart is finally at peace." — Mama Aisha
OVC Educational Re-enrollment Ushongo LGA, Benue State

No Child Should Lose Their Future to Circumstance

For too many children in Benue State, the loss of parents or acute household poverty interrupts their dreams — forced into labour, or dropping out simply because school fees are impossible. RUWOYSI launched a targeted campaign to find these children and bring them back: paying school fees, providing complete school kits, and offering psychosocial support.

To reinforce the impact, the Founder of RUWOYSI visited several communities in person — a powerful moment of mentorship, combining interactive storytelling, music and dramatic skits focused on resilience and the transformative power of education. It wasn't just a donation; it was a moment of collective empowerment that galvanised the entire school.

Founder of RUWOYSI visiting a classroom of re-enrolled children in Benue State
150+

OVCs now back in full-time education

90%+

Attendance rate among re-enrolled students

Ongoing

Community leaders committed to future re-enrollment drives

"When I looked into the eyes of these children, I saw doctors, teachers, and leaders who just needed a chance. I am proud that RUWOYSI can be that chance." — Founder of RUWOYSI