In the shadow of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the hum of sewing machines echoes through the Women for Gorillas tailoring workshop. Here, women stitch school uniforms, reusable sanitary pads, and stuffed gorilla toys—each item a stitch in the fabric of change. Founded in 2018, this cooperative trains marginalized women in tailoring and business skills, empowering them to support their families while protecting the forest.
The ripple effects are tangible. Uniforms sewn by the group keep girls in classrooms longer, while pads combat period poverty, a major barrier to education. Their bestselling items—gorilla-themed tote bags and T-shirts—are sold at lodges, with profits funding anti-poaching patrols. “Before, we relied on farming near the park. Now, my sewing pays for everything,” says Nalongo, a member. Conservationists highlight another benefit: fewer families risk entering gorilla habitats for firewood or bushmeat when women have stable incomes.
Success Story: In 2023, the group secured a contract to supply uniforms to 10 schools, doubling their revenue.
Get Involved: Sponsor a sewing machine ($150) or fund a month’s training for a woman artisan.
