Evelyn
2025
At just 20 years old, Evelyn is already a symbol of resilience and determination. After living with obstetric fistula for six months, she received life-changing treatment at our Fistula Care Centre in Malawi.
Following her recovery, Evelyn joined our income generation project, which provides former patients with a sewing machine, materials and full support to set up their own tailoring businesses. Delivered with support from UNFPA Malawi and the Embassy of Iceland in Lilongwe, the project helps women rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
Since starting her business, Evelyn has earned over MK 650,000. She’s reinvested that income to build stability and independence.
- Bought four chickens worth MK 44,000
- Purchased a goat for MK 60,000
- Stocked up five bags of maize worth MK 250,000 (still in storage)
- Bought a mobile phone worth MK 50,000
- Spent MK 160,000 on essential household items
- Saved MK 50,000 in her village bank
- Loaned MK 25,000 to community members on an interest basis
On a good day, Evelyn earns around MK 15,000 and on slower days around MK 10,000 – a consistent income that’s helping her build a brighter future.
Despite facing hardship – her husband left her shortly after her recovery – Evelyn is thriving. she now supports herself fully and remarkably, has become the main provider for her parents.
Her dream? To build a brick house with an iron sheet roof and grow her smallholding buying cows, pigs and ducks.
Evelyn’s story is a beautiful reminder that healing is just the beginning. With opportunity, dignity and a little support, young women like Evelyn are building futures full of promise.
