For Kinusu, the 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 has been life-changing. It gave him a second chance after missing out on formal education. Before joining the Apprenticeship Program, he spent his time fixing radios and small electronics in his village, a sign of his early interest in hands-on technical work. 

“Before, I was fixing radios. Now, I’m building gates, windows, beds, and repairing metal structures,” he says proudly. The program helped him gain skills, confidence, and income, and he has earned the respect of both peers and elders in Sarawe.

Kinusu’s journey with Project Zawadi began in 2019, when he was just in Standard Three at Sarawe Primary School. Despite many challenges, Project Zawadi stood by his side, first supporting his basic education and later, his vocational development. Although Kinusu was unable to join secondary school (O-Level) after completing primary education, he never gave up.

In 2023, Kinusu was selected for the Project Zawadi Apprenticeship Program in the welding and fabrication trade. He was placed with a local Fundi /Mastercraft (Philipo Ramadhan) who mentored him as he transitioned from electrical repair to welding. Though the trade was new to him, Kinusu quickly adapted and stood out for his dedication and ability to learn fast. He learned how to safely operate machines, fabricate metal gates, doors, and structures, and do heavy repair work. His discipline, teamwork, and consistency made him a reliable member of the workshop. 

In May 2025, Kinusu graduated. Due to his excellent performance during training, he was invited by his local Fundi / Mastercraft to remain at the workshop as an intern. He now earns a percentage of the income from every customer project he works on – a valuable opportunity for continued learning and income generation.

In the future, Kinusu would like to open his own welding workshop in Sarawe Village. He wants to provide employment to other youth who lack opportunities and share the same struggles he once faced! Inspired by Project Zawadi’s support since childhood, Kinusu hopes to become a mentor and role model in his community.

From repairing radios to mastering welding, he is building not only structures, but also a life filled with hope, dignity, and opportunity. Kinusu Kinusu’s story is an example of how long-term support combined with skill training can transform a young person’s future.

(Check out the video below of Kinusu during his Primary School education at Project Zawadi.)