Empower Women Through Creativity: Volunteer with Home of Malaika's Sewing Group in Tanzania
Support Local Women in Learning Sewing and Business Skills to Achieve Financial Independence
In Tanzania, many women face economic hardship and limited access to opportunities that allow them to provide for themselves and their families. Home of Malaika’s Sewing Group was created to change that. This empowering initiative supports women from disadvantaged backgrounds by teaching them sewing, jewelry-making, and other creative skills. Through hands-on workshops and regular business training sessions, the project equips women with the tools and knowledge they need to establish their own small businesses and generate a sustainable income.
As a volunteer, you’ll play an essential role in guiding the women through the creative process while helping them develop confidence and business strategies to sell their handmade products locally and internationally. This project is more than just learning to sew, it’s about supporting women in gaining independence, boosting self-esteem, and breaking the cycle of poverty in a supportive and uplifting environment.
Overview of Home of Malaika's Sewing Group
The Sewing Group meets three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 9 AM to 1 PM, with additional business training sessions on Thursday afternoons. During these sessions, women learn practical sewing skills, from creating custom clothing and bags to crafting unique pieces of jewelry and accessories. Volunteers support them every step of the way, from operating sewing machines and assisting with design ideas to helping them market their products at local markets and international events. In addition to creative training, the women receive valuable business guidance on pricing, budgeting, and marketing strategies, empowering them to turn their skills into a profitable and sustainable source of income.
Many of the women come from difficult backgrounds, and your support as a volunteer will give them not only practical skills but also the confidence and motivation to build a better future for themselves and their families. This project is perfect for creative-minded individuals who want to make a tangible difference while immersing themselves in Tanzanian culture. Whether you have experience in sewing and design or simply a passion for supporting women’s empowerment, your time and effort will leave a lasting impact.
Your Role as a Volunteer
Sewing, Crafting and Creative Support
Volunteers will assist women in learning sewing techniques, operating machines, and designing creative products such as bags, clothing, and jewellery. Your guidance will help them perfect their craft and develop new ideas for unique, sellable items.
Business and Marketing Support
Help women understand pricing, budgeting, and marketing strategies to successfully sell their products at local markets and events in Germany. Volunteers also assist with product photography and managing social media to increase visibility.
Providing English Support and Building Confidence
By offering basic English lessons and helping women practice communication skills, you’ll empower them to better negotiate sales and expand their customer base. Your encouragement and support will also play a big role in boosting their self-confidence.
Volunteer Program Overview: Duration, Requirements, and Logistics
Volunteering with Home of Malaika’s Sewing Group is a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to make a direct impact on women’s lives while learning about local Tanzanian culture. The program is open to volunteers with or without sewing experience, as long as you’re creative and eager to support the women in their learning process. The project takes place in a small, welcoming workshop just 3 km from the hostel, easily reachable by public transport or a 40-minute walk. Volunteers can join the program for as little as one week or stay for several months to build deeper connections with the women and the local community. In addition to assisting with sewing and business training, volunteers are encouraged to share creative ideas and contribute to new product designs. The project also offers a relaxed, fun environment where women and volunteers bond over music and laughter while working together.
- Duration: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9am – 1pm with additional business training sessions on Thursday afternoons
- Requirements: 16 years or older, no prior experience needed.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Assist in sewing and jewelry-making workshops
- Support business training and planning for single mothers
- Providing English Support and Building Confidence
- Logistics:
- Located 3 km from the hostel, accessible by public transport
- Full orientation provided
The Impact You Will Make
Your support as a volunteer with Home of Malaika’s Sewing Group directly impacts the lives of local women by giving them the skills and confidence to achieve financial independence. By teaching practical sewing and jewelry-making techniques and supporting them in developing small businesses, you’ll help these women break free from financial insecurity and build a better future for themselves and their families. This project not only empowers women to generate income but also fosters a supportive community where women uplift one another and gain confidence in their abilities. Your contribution will leave a lasting legacy, allowing them to become self-sufficient and provide for their children for years to come.
What's Included?
- Pre-arrival support through email, WhatsApp, telephone, and video calls
- Advice and guidance about the projects
- Pick up at the airport or bus station on your arrival
- Drop off at the airport or a bus station when you leave
- An orientation tour in Arusha personalized to your individual needs, including help buying a local SIM card, guidance on how to use public transport, and lunch
- On the first day of your project, our volunteer coordinator will come with you to show you which public transport to take and make sure you settle in well at your project
- Accommodation in our hostel. Dormitories or private rooms
- Breakfast and dinner seven days a week in the hostel.
- Lunch can be bought from nearby local restaurants
- 24/7 support from our volunteer coordinators who speak English and German
- Additional free time activities, such as safaris and treks, can be organized by the hostel for an additional cost
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two airports near Arusha, Kilimanjaro (JRO) and Arusha (ARK). Kilimanjaro is an international airport, and Arusha is a domestic airport. You can often find cheaper flights to JRO, so that should be your first choice. We will pick you up at any time, day or night, so please choose the flight that suits you best.
To volunteer in Tanzania you will need an Ordinary visa for the purposes of humanitarian and charity activities. Most countries can easily obtain the visa on arrival at the airport. It costs $US50 ($US100 for American citizens), is valid for three months and can be renewed once. If you plan to stay longer than six months you need to apply for a Resident Permit. Consult your Foreign Affairs Office if you're unsure.
Our house has a secure two-meter-high wall, a daytime watchman, a night guard and our guard dogs. Arusha is generally safe but it is best to take a taxi in the evenings rather than walking. When you arrive we will give you all the tips you need to know on how to stay safe.
We welcome anybody who is open to new cultures, and who wants to contribute to meaningful projects in Tanzania. Work experience in the chosen field is welcome but is usually not a requirement. If a project has specific requirements they will be listed on the project page. A basic knowledge of English, and the willingness to learn some Swahili words are necessary.