Sharon is the leader of our ribbon sandal strap team and a talented seamstress. She is a quick-learner, diligent with all the work she’s given. She’s the type of person who makes your spirit feel happy from talking to her, and at the end of each interaction, you just want to hug her.
Sharon is incredibly loving and generous to her family and friends and is a joy to have around. She’s said that “keeping quiet makes me sick,” so if you ever need a good chat, Sharon is your girl. She’s married and she and her husband just welcomed their second child. We were able to catch this interview with her before she left for maternity leave!
How long have you worked at Sseko?
I joined Sseko in 2011, so it’s been seven years working here!
Can you share a little about your background?
I grew up with a single mother and my brother and sister. I am grateful for my family, but life was not easy. We used to struggle for a living, but we overcame those struggles. My mother worked to hard to keep all three of us in school.
What brought you to Sseko?
After finishing school, I was at home for two years and did not have a job. In 2011, Sseko management called some schools as they were looking for a seamstress and the school I had graduated from recommended me!
What’s your favorite thing to work on at Sseko?
Sewing! I love sewing so very much. I enjoy sewing everything from our sandal straps to our makeup bags and kaftans!
What’s something unique about your story?
Whenever I go through hardships, I always overcome. When I was in school, my mom didn’t have enough money to pay the fee for me to take my exam. I was in the room ready to take it and they made me leave. I walked outside, sat under a tree and cried. A woman came out and asked what the problem was, and I explained to her what was wrong. She took my hand and said, “Come.” and took me to a room and gave me the money I needed to take my exams and I passed them right away!
WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE OTHER WOMEN?
Be brave and strong. Do what you need to do in order to live an independent life because I’ve found it’s so good to be able to do that. Sseko has empowered me and the other women here to be independent. Another piece of advice is to concentrate on your education because it will open doors for you in the right time.
Want to be connected to Sharon as your Sseko Sister and enable more women like Sharon to enjoy a dignified workplace with opportunities for the future? Become a Sseko Fellow!