(Amazing Grace Club members showcasing the enterprise during a tour)

Entrepreneurial skills are crucial in empowering the youth, fostering self-reliance, and enhancing financial independence. By venturing into businesses, acquiring assets like land properties, shops and houses, Amazing Grace Star Club in Shurugwi District have not only uplifted their livelihoods but also contributed to the overall economic development of their community.

Hand in Hand Zimbabwe supported the five member group under the MEY1 2018 project  through trainings on how to manage enterprise finance, enterprise marketing and opportunity identification and enterprise planning in various entrepreneurial initiatives and the club has remained active since then.

Before the Self help group was formed ,the individuals had small enterprises which were not thriving however after forming the club ,they  received trainings which made their enterprises viable .

“When l joined Amazing Grace Star Club , my business was very low .lt was so difficult for me to sustain my seven member family because l could only make a few cents. However after l received training and mentorship from Hand in Hand Zimbabwe, my business started to gain profits relatively. I can now afford to buy shoes for my siblings and pay school fees on time ,l am grateful for the assistance that l got.

“My friend and l, through the  retail business, we have since been able to open an outdoor market selling clothes ,shoes ,bags and accessories. We are doing well and aiming higher .We wish to expand and occupy a shop, said Nomatter Kagonye“.

One notable aspect of the group’s entrepreneurial initiatives is the internal savings and lending scheme (ISALs). Each member contributes $100 per month towards this fund, which serves as a reliable source of loans for investment and business expansion within the group. The fact that members can borrow from this fund at a reasonable interest rate of 10% demonstrates a sustainable approach to supporting each other’s entrepreneurial pursuits.

The tangible outcomes of the club’s efforts are evident in the substantial returns members received at the end of 2023. With each member receiving USD 1820 from the shared savings, it showcases the collective success achieved through their entrepreneurial activities and savings culture. Additionally, leveraging external resources like the Hand in Hand  Zim revolving facility further boosted individual enterprises within the club, indicating a strategic approach to enhancing business growth.

The club through creating synergies among members have achieved greater impact in their community. By pooling resources and expertise, they can explore new business opportunities. The star club exemplifies how entrepreneurial activities coupled with collective savings and strategic partnerships can lead to significant empowerment and financial independence among young individuals. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration, they not only secure their own future but also contribute to the broader socio-economic development of their surroundings.