Nabuuma Prossy, a 19-year-old young mother, shares her inspiring journey of transformation through Reach Out Mbuya Community Health Initiative (ROM) under the SHE SOARS project. Despite financial constraints that initially prevented her from acquiring vocational skills, Nabuuma’s life changed significantly after joining the program. She is now utilizing her hairdressing skills to support herself and care for her newborn son.
Baseline Situation
Before joining SHE SOARS, Nabuuma was at home without a stable source of income. An opportunity arose unexpectedly when she registered for the program during a community outreach session.
“I registered and began life skills training at the Uganda Skateboard Union Skate Park in Kitintale. I chose hairdressing because it had always been on my mind, but I did not have the money to sponsor myself,” she recalls.
Adding,
“The trainers taught us thoroughly, and even while still in training, I began practicing at my sister Suzan’s salon, Suzie’s Beauty Salon in Kitintale. It gave me an early opportunity to gain hands-on experience,” she notes.
Nabuuma has been working at the salon for the past three months, steadily gaining practical experience. She also joined a savings group, but after experiencing a setback when funds were stolen, she opted to join a smaller, village-based savings group for greater security.
Despite these challenges, Nabuuma remains committed to her work. She notes that affordability is a key factor in her community.
“On a good day, I can style three clients’ hair, depending on their hairstyles. People here prefer affordable services,” she shares.
Today, Nabuuma serves multiple clients daily. Through this opportunity, she has not only gained confidence and hands-on experience but also learned to balance her new responsibilities as a mother to her one-month-old son. Looking ahead, Nabuuma has set clear goals for both her personal and professional growth.
“In one year, I aim to own my own salon. I commend ROM’s SHE SOARS for allowing us to learn hairdressing,” she concludes.
