Zahra Ahmed Yahya, a 30-year-old woman, lives with her parents and three sisters in the Al-Khawkhah district of Al-Hudaydah Governorate. Before the crisis, the family led a decent life, with her father working as a fisherman to provide for their daily needs.

However, the war turned their lives upside down, causing economic deterioration and skyrocketing prices, which negatively impacted the family’s income, making it insufficient to meet their basic needs. “Before the war, we lived well and did not suffer from high prices. Our income was plentiful, but after the war, job opportunities decreased, prices rose, unemployment increased significantly, and poverty became widespread,” Zahra explained.

Zahra did not succumb to her desperate situation but instead sought ways to help her family. Through community committees, she heard about an organization offering support and training, and she quickly registered. “Before the training, I knew a few basic sewing skills, but I knew nothing about net weaving and repair, nor how to start my own business or save money to help my family,” Zahra said.

Through the Increasing Resilience Project through Innovative and Sustainable Improvement of Food Security and Livelihoods, funded by BMZ and implemented by ADO in partnership with DKH, Zahra received vocational training in net weaving and sail repair, as well as training in small business planning and establishment.

“I learned a lot from the courses provided by ADO, gaining many valuable skills, and my father encouraged me,” Zahra shared.

After completing the training, Zahra received startup support for a small project for herself and her colleagues. They were provided with tools and equipment for net weaving and sail repair, including sewing machines, weaving machines, materials for making and repairing nets and sails, a solar power system, a first aid kit, and fire extinguishers. This support became a source of income for her and her family.

Zahra and her colleagues began producing sails, repairing fishing nets, and sewing dresses of all sizes, as well as children’s clothing. “These aids will greatly contribute to changing my life and my future ambitions.

I now have a good source of income for myself and my family because the tools we received are excellent,” Zahra said. “We have started receiving orders for making sails, children’s clothes, and dresses. Life is beginning to change, and the support is wonderful and complete,” she added.

Zahra expressed her deep gratitude to ADO, DKH, and the donor BMZ for their support, which improved her and her family’s lives. “I would like to thank ADO, DKH, and the donor BMZ on behalf of myself and my colleagues for everything they have provided us,” she concluded.

Today, Zahra’s SME is a hub of empowerment. Her success has restored her family’s dignity and inspired her to dream bigger.

Zahra’s story is an inspiring success story. It demonstrates how strong willpower and determination can overcome difficulties and challenges.

The story also highlights the importance of support and training in empowering women, helping them achieve their dreams, and improving their living standards.