Maun – Botswana

The Goal of this project is to support underprivileged youths and AIDS orphans in training and education in order to improve their opportunities to find a job.

Bontekanye Botumile is a writer in Botswana who – just as the German Brothers Grimm did, writes down the stories and believes of her people which have so far only been passed on orally . Every year she publishes one book. For this book-launch she puts a great show on stage with underprivileged youths. The goal is next to cultural aspects for the youths to gain more self confidence and self esteem, to be able to change their lives. After these shows most of the youths dropped back into their old lives without having an opportunity to change it because of their life-circumstances.

That is what the project „open doors“ would like to change.

The offer applies only to those who showed commitment and reliability in the rehearsals and the performances of the show and who are not able to finance any further education because of their personal circumstances. 5-10 young people are sponsored, especially women.

In all, youths will get training and education in tailoring, computer applications, driving lessons, or hospitality. Additionally microcredits are granted so that they can manage their basic expenses during their educational phases. 50 % of this sum will have to be payed back by the young people after having found a job.

The Project started in January 2009.

Through the help of HelpAlliance seven young people could be supported so far.: Two of them in a computer course, two in a tailoring course and three passed their driver’s licences. Two of them could even be placed in permanent employments.