Sometimes, the most powerful transformations begin with a simple “yes” — yes to learning, yes to growth, yes to believing in oneself. This is the story of Zainab Abdulaziz, one of the incredible participants of the 9jafoodfiesta Empowerment Program in Katsina State, who turned that “yes” into something beautiful.
When Zainab first joined the Fashion Design training, she had no prior experience with sewing. Like many others, she came with curiosity, determination, and the hope that this free program could open a new chapter for her. And it did — more than she imagined.
During the course of the one-month, hands-on training (which ran every Saturday and Sunday at IDC Kaseda, Tudun Matawalle), Zainab learned the basics of tailoring, pattern drafting, and how to set up a fashion business. But what stood out was not just her ability to learn quickly — it was how she poured her creativity, pride, and appreciation into her final project.
As a reflection of what the training meant to her, Zainab created a handmade dress and added a stunning personal touch:
A vertical “9jafoodfiesta” text beautifully stitched right in the middle of the dress — a design choice that carried deep meaning.
“I had never used a sewing machine before this training. I’m so happy I can now make something with my own hands. This dress is my gift to myself and to 9jafoodfiesta,” she shared with a bright smile.
Her story is more than just a fashion milestone — it represents what empowerment truly means.
Not just teaching a skill, but unlocking a person’s ability to believe in themselves, create value, and proudly showcase their progress.
💡 Why Zainab’s Story Matters
- It proves that with opportunity, anyone can grow — even with no background or equipment.
- It shows how empowerment isn’t just about jobs — it’s about dignity, identity, and creative expression.
- It reminds us why 9jafoodfiesta’s mission — to train 2,000 people per state across Nigeria — is not just ambitious, but necessary.
Zainab is just one of the many lives touched during the Katsina training. Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, a single skill can stitch together a future of hope.
Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring stories of more participants from the just-concluded 9jafoodfiesta Empowerment Program in Katsina State.
Let’s keep building people, one skill at a time. 💛
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