Tuhafeni Shiningwali, a 21-year-old from Omuthiya in the Oshikoto region, has transformed her life after receiving financial literacy training from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) last year. Armed with new skills, she has become one of the youngest entrepreneurs in her region, running a successful food business.
Shiningwali credits the training for empowering her and giving her the tools to efficiently manage her income from sales. Her dream of owning a restaurant has been fueled by the newfound financial literacy skills she acquired.
Selling homemade pizzas, omelettes, and meat products, Shiningwali conducts research to cater to her customers’ preferences. She has also learned how to handle challenges, manage different customers, and run her business effectively.
Despite currently improving her Grade 12 marks at Iipundi Senior Secondary School, Shiningwali has been able to pay her school fees through her business. She encourages other young people to consider entrepreneurship as a viable option, especially if they are facing financial constraints in pursuing further education.
The financial literacy training program, which Shiningwali attended along with 45 individuals from her village, also provided sexual and reproductive health services. The initiative has not only transformed her mindset but also instilled in her the importance of saving for a better future.
Shiningwali’s journey from financial struggles to entrepreneurial success is a testament to the impact of financial literacy and the opportunities it can create for individuals to secure a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.