Cameroon - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

to provide dressmaking training for 50 vulnerable individuals in Limbe, SW region of Cameroon. The target groups include vulnerable adolescent girls, teen mothers, female school dropouts, destitute women, and orphans.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

1. Limited Educational Opportunities: Many vulnerable women and girls in Limbe have limited access to formal education due to various factors such as financial constraints, early marriage, and some cultural norms that may prioritize boys' education over girls'. Over 90% of government owned schools in these regions have remained closed now for close to eight years, making the few functional ones to be overcrowded and thus lower quality of the process. The many functional privately owned schools charge high fees, beyond the reach of the majority of these vulnerable groups of persons. 2. Economic Marginalization: Without adequate education and skills training, vulnerable women and girls struggle to secure meaningful food,employment or generate sustainable income, leading to economic dependency, vulnerability. Many are seen hawking petit items on the streets, doing house help jobs, doing farm manual labour etc and these further exposes than to scenes of GBV, rape, abductions, assault etc

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

• Relevance of Dressmaking: Dressmaking is a highly relevant and marketable skill in Limbe, where there is a demand for locally made garments, traditional attire, and fashion accessories. By equipping vulnerable women and girls with dressmaking skills, they can tap into this demand and create sustainable livelihoods for themselves. • Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Dressmaking training not only provides technical expertise but also cultivates entrepreneurship skills, such as business management, marketing, and customer relations. This empowers participants to start their own dressmaking enterprises, become self-reliant, and contribute positively to the local economy. • Psychosocial Benefits: Engaging in creative activities like dressmaking can have therapeutic and psychosocial benefits, fostering self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment among participants. This is particularly valuable for individuals who have experienced trauma or adversity. "Stitching Futures"

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

1. Proficient dressmaking skills and technical expertise among participants. 2. Increased self-reliance and income generation through entrepreneurial ventures or employment in the fashion industry. 3. Enhanced creativity, self-expression, and self-esteem among participants. 4. Contribution to local economic development through the production and sale of quality garments. 5. Empowerment of vulnerable women and girls, leading to improved socio-economic status and community engagement. 6. Some of the trainees might get jobs with already existing and successful dress making workshops. 7. Provided with seed capital either by the project donors, benevolent or family members, some of the trainees will set up their own dress making Shops in their villages or move to other cities where the market may be more accessible. 8. With engagement in this training process, idleness will be minimized, exposure to violence reduced, reduced sexual activity, early marriages and thus reduced incidences of

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Limbe, a cosmopolitan city located in Fako Division of the SW region of Cameroon, is home to a diverse population, including vulnerable groups such as adolescent girls, teen mothers, female school dropouts, destitute women, female internally displaced persons (IDPs), orphans, victims of gender-based violence (GBV), victims of the ongoing Anglophone conflict, street children, etc. These individuals often face significant barriers to education, employment, and economic independence, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization. Considered one of the safest towns in the SW region, incidences of violent gun battles, destruction of homes and property, street harassment, kidnapping, rape and crime wave are generally fewer than in in over 90% of other areas in the entire SW and NW regions. This coastal town, therefore, has become a significant host to thousands of IDPs of all sorts. With this uncontrolled influx, the following context outlines the current humanitarian situation prevailing:

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

5

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

3

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Nsen Edwilda Ewi Program Coordinator: Successfully coordinated multiple programs, ensuring their smooth execution and success in Tailoring Fashion designer with expertise in budgeting, financial planning, and reporting. Counseling: Proficient in providing guidance and support to individuals for personal and academic growth. ACHUO-MIH CALISTER, MEG, P-MBI Training and Development: Skilled in creating and delivering training programs. Program Coordination: Experienced in managing and coordinating various programs efficiently. Guidance Counselor: Provided counseling services, helping individuals navigate personal and academic challenges. Trainer: Developed and conducted training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge. KEDZE SIDOLEEN YUOH Training and Development: Expert in designing and delivering training programs for skill enhancement. Fashion Design: Proficient in creating innovative and stylish clothing designs. Leadership: Strong leadership skills

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://www.facebook.com/OneRealityFoundation?_rdc=1&_rdr

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Clothing(Dress-Making), Fashion and design , pattern making

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Dressmaking is a highly relevant and marketable skill in Limbe, where there is a demand for locally made garments, traditional attire, and fashion accessories. By equipping vulnerable women and girls with dressmaking skills, they can tap into this demand and create sustainable livelihoods for themselves. • Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Dressmaking training not only provides technical expertise but also cultivates entrepreneurship skills, such as business management, marketing, and customer relations. This empowers participants to start their own dressmaking enterprises, become self-reliant, and contribute positively to the local economy. The sales of the finished products will provide the necessary for welfare and livelihood .Hence, creating jobs, workshops that would generates income .Hence poverty reduction and possibility for good living condition and self sustainability

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

the dress-making project at One-Reality supports the Zero Hunger goal by providing economic stability, fostering sustainable practices, promoting community development, offering educational and vocational programs, and building partnerships that enhance food security, nutrition and good health Increased self-reliance and income generation through entrepreneurial ventures or employment in the fashion industry. The proceeds from the crafts, finished products will enable the beneficiaries of the project to afford food for themselves, family and community. Provision for breakfast and lunch will be provided during the training period. Partnerships and Collaborations Collaboration with NGOs: Partnering with non-governmental organizations focused on hunger and food security can enhance the project's impact, providing additional resources and support for food-related initiatives.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

The dress-making project at One-Reality promotes good health and well-being by providing economic opportunities, ensuring safe working conditions, fostering social inclusion, facilitating access to healthcare, and adopting sustainable practices. The young ladies, teen mothers, and vulnerable women will be provided sanitary paths, return health examinations, and the provision of basic first aid. The income generated by the trainees will aid them to be financially guided on how to save for future investment, money managements, income generating possibilities using their crafts and skills acquired from the training

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Vocational training surrounds our concept. we turn to encourage and promote vocational and technical education, especially for the vulnerable or non educated. Our trainings, workshops also guide on these issues .

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Women are the main managers and beneficiaries of the Dress-making project at one-reality. Opportunities are open and fairly spread out with no discrimination

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

We devise methods to educate the participants on Clean water and sanitation. Furthermore, we make provision for eco-friendly sanitary paths at the end of each month. We strongly advocate the use of non-toxic chemicals, using eco-friendly and non-toxic chemicals in our dyeing and washing processes to minimize water pollution, and community access to clean drinking water through initiatives like well drilling, water purification systems, or water filtration projects. Education and Awareness Conducting workshops on water conservation, hygiene practices, and the importance of clean water to ensure effective behavioral change.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

One-Reality supports the transition to affordable and clean energy and promotes environmental sustainability and community well-being. Supporting local clean energy projects that provide affordable solar panels and sustainable energy solutions to the community, such as solar-powered street lighting or community solar farms,.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

We promote sustainable workplace and human resource practices. Fair Wages and Working Conditions, Fair Compensation. One-reality (OR) ensures fair wages and equitable compensation for all employees, fostering a supportive work environment that values diversity and promotes financial stability. We implement health and safety measures to ensure a safe and conducive workplace for all employees, regardless of background or status. Our project prioritizes gender equality by providing equal access to training, employment, and leadership opportunities for women within the dress-making industry. One-reality supports women’s entrepreneurship through mentorship programs and small business development initiatives that empower them to thrive in their careers and contribute to household income.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

We endeavour to be innovative by developing, investing in, and carrying out research in pattern development to create new, innovative product lines that meet market demands and promote sustainable fashion. We outsource collaboration with vocational institutions, consultants, and research organizations to foster innovation and share knowledge. Our comprehensive training programs educate employees on the latest technologies, production techniques, sustainable practices, and machine maintenance. We conduct workshops and seminars on industry trends, innovations, and best practices to keep the workforce updated and skilled. We equally attend fashion events

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Our efforts to reduce inequalities align with SDG 10’s objective of leaving no one behind and ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of background or circumstances. Our project prioritizes gender equality by providing equal access to training, employment, and leadership opportunities for women within the dress-making industry. We support women’s entrepreneurship through mentorship programs and small business development initiatives, empowering them to thrive in their careers and contribute to household income. Support and participation by engaging with local communities and stakeholders fosters social cohesion and inclusion, creating opportunities for dialogue and collaboration. Participation in Decision-Making: We involve youth presidents in project planning and decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard, understood, and respected.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

We organise events and other related trainings for Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building Education and Training: Through workshops, training programs, and partnerships with educational institutions, consultants, and volunteers. We empower individuals with skills and knowledge in sustainable practices and entrepreneurship. Technology and Innovation: We embrace technological advancements and innovation to address urban challenges and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our production cycle

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

One-reality supports and encourages all activities that comply with international policies. We advocate for smooth policies, best practices, and regulations that promote sustainable production and consumption practices at local, national, and international levels. We also partner with non-governmental organizations to promote responsible consumption and production practices within the broader community.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Sustainable Sourcing: ensuring that our materials are sourced from suppliers who adhere to sustainable and ethical practices, reducing the environmental impact of climate change in Cameroon and the world at large. We prefer prioritizing local suppliers whose fabrics can be controlled. Ozone-friendly fabric for humans are taken into consideration, along with the season and time of the year, Purchasing from local fabric producers reduces transportation-related emissions and supports local economies, further protecting related hazards for a better climate and ozone layer

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to reduce our carbon footprint indirectly benefits marine environments by mitigating climate change. Our machines are eco-friendly. Energy consumption is carefully calculated and monitored. We also endeavour to engage in ethical and Sustainable Supply Chains, sustainable sourcing and outsourcing Sustainable Sourcing: Ensuring that our materials are sourced from suppliers who adhere to sustainable and ethical practices, reducing the environmental impact on marine ecosystems in Cameroon and the world at large We prefer prioritizing local suppliers to reduce transportation-related emissions and support local economies, further protecting marine environments and related hazards

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

One-reality implements various sustainable and eco-friendly practices that support the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, aligning with the Life on Land goal in Cameroon and international standards .We practice sustainable material sourcing. We focus more on eco-friendly fabrics made from organic and sustainably sourced fabrics that have a minimal impact on the environment, reducing the demand for materials that contribute to deforestation and habitat destruction.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

partnering with other local community organizations having similar or making efforts to resolve some of the UN sustainable goals. It .It would be of prime importance to work with UN organisations, local organisations, NGOs, and authorities to jointly address the UN SDGS

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

6

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

5

05.08 Justification

It will be a modernized version of old Ankara fabrics. Creating fashionable patterns to reflect European standards, taste and value using cultural and regional fabrics and styles from the north west, and north regions of Cameroon. Ankara, from Nigeria (Senator wears, transforming or using Local fabrics to design European standards of a marriage wear or outfit.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

My Main potential customers are Africans, both home and Abroad. most especially Cameroonians and Nigerians Abroad. Our social media and logistics setup will enable and ease to transportation. Quality control will be highly respected. Modern machines and qualified trainers will be engaged in the project to train and produce high standard and valuable casual wears , night wear, etc

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Provision and fund-raising to support 10 internally displaced teen mothers to set up a pancake project at Mile 16 Buea Road. Provision of ICT programs for little girls and children (7+).