OurModel
Empower Them is a grassroots peacebuilding initiative that equips women survivors of domestic violence with the tools to achieve economic independence and family stability. Our model links livestock ownership with entrepreneurship training and conflict transformation.
What We Do
Empower Them helps women survivors of domestic violence in rural Rwanda rebuild their lives through livestock ownership, entrepreneurship training, and peer support that promote peace within families and communities.
A Grassroots Peacebuilding Initiative
Since launching in Gateko village, Bugesera District, we have empowered 30 women with female pigs and trained them in business and peace skills. Each woman now passes two piglets to other families—expanding impact and spreading peace from home to home.
Born from Women's Voices
Empower Them was born out of listening to women whose lives were marked by violence and dependency. Guided by the belief that peace begins at home, we designed a program that combines economic empowerment and conflict transformation.
How It Works
The Empower Them model is simple, sustainable, and designed to multiply impact through a pass-it-on approach.
Step 1: Selection
Local leaders and Shelter Them identify women survivors of domestic violence who are ready to rebuild their lives.
Step 2: Training
Participants learn budgeting, small-business planning, savings, and conflict-resolution during an intensive training.
Step 3: Livestock Distribution
Each woman receives a healthy female pig as a productive asset for income generation and household stability.
Step 4: Pass-It-On
When her pig gives birth, each woman passes two piglets to two other women in need—spreading opportunity and peace across the community.
Training Topics
Our comprehensive training program combines practical business skills with human-centered dialogue that promotes respect and cooperation at home.
Pig Rearing and Animal Health Care
Women learn essential skills for maintaining healthy livestock, ensuring their pigs thrive and produce strong litters.
Entrepreneurship and Household Budgeting
Participants develop business planning skills and learn to manage household finances effectively.
Savings and Cooperative Management
Training includes strategies for saving money and working together in cooperative structures.
Peaceful Communication and Conflict De-escalation
Women learn empathy, peaceful communication techniques, and methods to resolve conflicts without violence.
Community Dialogue
To challenge stigma and encourage shared responsibility, Empower Them hosts open community dialogues monthly.
Bringing Everyone to the Table
Men, women, and local leaders gather to discuss equality, family communication, and joint decision-making. These gatherings help shift social norms and make peacebuilding everyone's concern.
Support Our Model
Help us expand this proven approach to more communities. Your support strengthens a model where income, dignity, and peace grow together.
Support Our Programs
Your support can help us expand our programs and reach more youth in need. Join us in our mission to empower youth and advance health equity in Rwanda.