Strengthening the Tech Ecosystem
You can support startups and aspiring innovators in different ways. Here are some ways to support them!
BikeLadies
In the northern region of Sierra Leone, a remarkable initiative has taken root: BikeLadies. This pioneering project, spearheaded by eWomen SL, seeks to empower marginalized women by providing them with opportunities in the commercial motorcycle riding sector. The premise is simple yet transformative: any woman capable of proficiently operating a motorbike for commercial purposes stands to receive a brand new motorbike of her own, courtesy of eWomen. One such inspiring tale within this movement is that of Mariama Timbo. Despite facing financial constraints that forced her to drop out of school after completing the WASCCE once, Mariama seized the opportunity presented by BikeLadies. Passing the rigorous test with flying colors, she was awarded a brand new motorbike by eWomen. Rather than stopping there, Mariama’s story took a remarkable turn. Fuelled by her newfound sense of purpose, she resolved to retake the WASCCE and pursue further education. Yet Mariama’s journey didn’t end with her own success. Demonstrating her commitment to uplifting other marginalized women, she embarked on a mission to train them in the art of motorcycle riding. In recognition of her efforts, eWomen awarded her a second motorbike. With this, Mariama mentored a young woman named Sallay, doubling the impact of BikeLadies. As Mariama’s influence spreads, more marginalized women are expressing interest in joining the ranks of BikeLadies. To meet this growing demand, Mariama has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with a driving school, entrusting them with the task of training aspiring female riders. Meanwhile, she continues her advocacy efforts, lobbying for additional motorbikes to support the expanding network of BikeLadies.
Disability Pride Farms
We empower women with disabilities by equipping them with agricultural skills, enabling them to raise their voices against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) with the goal of ending SGBV in Sierra Leone. Our initiative, called Disability Pride Farms, is led by women with disabilities. Each participant can personalize the project with a suitable prefix, making it unique to her. For example, Aminata Fudia Bangura, the first woman with a disability for whom we secured a MOVE Purposeful grant, is currently implementing her project and has named it AmVee Disability Pride Farms.
EcoTrikes
Introducing EcoTrikes, innovative manual vehicles designed by the startup Dear Plastic. Resembling tricycles, these EcoTrikes serve as mobile plastic waste collection points, providing a sustainable solution to address the pressing plastic waste crisis in Sierra Leone. By eliminating the need for fuel, EcoTrikes not only contribute to significant cost savings but also reduce environmental impact.
At the heart of this initiative lies a commitment to empower communities, particularly women, by easing the burden of heavy loads traditionally carried on their heads. With each EcoTrike at an affordable price, investing in these vehicles not only supports Dear Plastic’s mission but also uplifts vulnerable individuals and communities. Join us in making a tangible difference, one EcoTrike at a time. To support Dear Plastic and local communities, consider purchasing EcoTrikes. These can be used by the communities for plastic waste collection or for trading purposes.
EcoPlaygrounds
EcoPlaygrounds, backed by eWomen SL, pioneers in crafting playground components from discarded tires, offering both entertainment for children and a sustainable solution to waste management. Their eco-friendly playgrounds are gaining popularity across Sierra Leone, with three preschools already benefiting and plans for installation at the Bo Children Hospital underway. By financing a playground in a community or school, priced at 50,000 SLE per installation, you not only support EcoPlaygrounds but also provide joy and recreation for underprivileged children. Join the movement today and make a positive impact!
GreenLove App
Aspiring innovators within the realm of computer science are throwing their support behind a tree planting initiative launched by eWomen. Their endeavor involves the development of a user-friendly app called GreenLove, designed to streamline the process of pledging trees for planting. While the tree planting efforts are already underway, the GreenLove app aims to enhance the experience by introducing engaging features, making the act of pledging trees for the lush green spaces of Sierra Leone more enjoyable. To bring the GreenLove app to life, resources such as data storage, software licenses, and other essentials are required. However, the team behind this initiative is committed to making it happen. Currently, individuals are pledging trees via WhatsApp, but the upcoming GreenLove app promises an even more immersive and interactive pledging experience. In support of the app’s development, contributions in the form of tree pledges are welcome. Each tree pledge amounts to 125 SLE, and interested parties can easily make their pledges by contacting us. Notably, these pledged trees can be dedicated for any purpose specified by the donor. Whether it’s to commemorate a loved one’s birthday or to honor the memory of a departed family member, the pledged trees will be planted with the donor’s intentions in mind, ensuring a meaningful and personalized contribution to the greening of Sierra Leone.
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