Economic Empowerment

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Source: Botswana Daily News
Francistown — Ms Elizabeth Mathumo, 62, who is living with disability knows that being a woman at the top of a male dominated industry is not an easy position to occupy.

Ms Mathumo is living proof that not only men operate well in an upholstery business, and never allowed her physical status nor her gender get in the way of fulfilling her dream of becoming an upholster.

In fact it is difficult to imagine the mother of nine donning overalls to engage in such a taxing work with relative ease.

Her job is probably not every woman's ideal way of earning a living, but watching her busy with her work it is clear she is into upholstery with a passion.

Narrating her story in an interview, Ms Mathumo revealed that her physical disability came in 2009 after she was involved in a car accident.

"I was involved in a car accident that left my right hand and legs malfunctioning. I was given a wheel chair to use but with time I left it to try and walk on crutches and of late I can walk on my own at a slow pace and for a short distance," she said.

Ms Mathumo said when she recovered, she felt the need to engage in an activity that would help her generate an income and keep busy.

Armed with some experience in leather works production and fashion design from her previous employment as well as the desire to be self-employed, Ms Mathumo felt convinced she would penetrate the cutthroat business world.

While many people living with disability have not given it a thought, the tough talking Ms Mathumo saw a niche and never looked back.

"I approached the Social and Community Development department in Francistown so as to take advantage of the poverty eradication alternative package. I was approved and given necessities to operate upholstery, and I was as well taken for training to enhance my skills," she said.

Ms Mathumo operates from her house in Francistown and she specialises in covering car seats and sofas, she also does leather works such as tanning, cutting and stitching.

She said because she was still finding it difficult to bend down frequently and lifting heavy objects and has engaged people to help her around.

Ms Mathumo's business is doing relatively well and she also appreciates the support she receives from the community.

"People around trust me with their items, they also fall for the work I do. This is the kind of support that keeps me sailing and it gives me confidence when people look beyond my disability and appreciate the ability in me," she said.

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