Silas Tutaleni, from Oshihiindongo
village in the Omusati
Region, has faced challenges
that would break many. She is a
young mother, an aspiring nurse,
and a determined entrepreneur
whose journey is defined by resilience,
courage, and hope.
Her story began in 2022 when
she completed Grade 11 with
dreams of pursuing nursing. However,
life took an unexpected turn
when she became pregnant at the
age of 19. This defining moment
placed her at great risk. Not only
did she face the disappointment
of delaying her education, but she
also had to contend with financial
struggles and a lack of parental
support.
“I wanted to be a nurse, but
there was no money to continue
my studies,” she explains. “I was
unemployed, and my parents did
not support me. It was a tough
time.”
Determined to provide for her
child, Silas turned to small business
ventures, selling snacks like
sweets, biscuits, and chocolates
to make ends meet. This, however,
was just the beginning of her
transformation.
FINDING HOPE
Her life took a turn for the better
when she joined the Hope Initiative
for Sustainable Advancement
(HISA) in 2024, while staying at
a mother’s shelter in preparation
for childbirth. HISA, an organization
dedicated to empowering
young and unemployed women,
provided her with the skills and
confidence to create a sustainable
livelihood.
The organization empowers children
and communities through
education, food and nourishment,
and capacity building. Their aim is
to break the cycle of poverty and
build resilience.
“HISA changed my life completely,”
she says. “I gained new
ideas and practical skills. They
trained me in making head bonnets,
sewing blankets, and even
producing washing soap.”
Armed with these skills, Silas
took the initiative to form a support
group for unemployed mothers
in her village. Through this
group, women are learning to create
income-generating opportunities,
fostering a spirit of self-reliance
and empowerment.
Silas credits her perseverance
and success to the influence of key
figures in her life. She draws inspiration
from her friend Johannes
Shivute, her grandmother Loide
Samuel, and Pastor Grace, who
have supported and encouraged
her throughout her journey.
“They reminded me that my story
is not over. I still have a future,
and I can still achieve my dreams,”
Silas said.
Silas’s story is not just about survival;
it is about thriving despite
adversity. She encourages other
young mothers to remain steadfast
in their ambitions, seek growth
opportunities, and trust in God.
“To all young mothers like me,
do not give up,” she urges. “Join us
at HISA. We will train you, help
you create jobs for yourself, and
support you on your journey. With
God, everything is possible,” she
concluded.