commmunity centre for excellence

Success Story of Linda Saima Jackson: A Journey of Resilience and Empowerment Linda, a widow and mother of five, faced unimaginable challenges after losing her husband in the 2013 war in South Sudan. Left to care for her children alone, she fled to Kenya in 2016 and sought refuge in the Kalobeyei settlement. Life as a refugee brought with it harsh weather, limited access to water, and no clear path to economic stability. Without any formal skills, Linda struggled to find a way to provide for her family. In 2019, everything changed when Linda crossed paths with the Community Centre for Excellence (CCE). "Thanks to CCE for looking into the lives of vulnerable women like us," she says. CCE provided her with an opportunity to learn dressmaking and tailoring, a life-changing experience that helped her gain new skills and envision a brighter future. Her determination paid off, and CCE not only trained her but also linked her with partners like the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) and Swisscontact, opening even more doors for her. Today, Linda is not just a successful widow; she is the proud owner of her own tailoring shop and has secured a job to train other women. This newfound stability allowed her to open a hotel, pay her children's school fees, and provide them with a balanced diet. "I am a happy widow," she shares, grateful for the opportunities provided by CCE that have transformed her life. Her message to women is simple but powerful: "Come out of your comfort zone and search for opportunities with organizations that are ready to support and uplift you." Linda's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, skill-building, and the support of organizations like CCE in changing lives.