AFRICA FOCUS: Stitching Strength - The Story of Rosemaina Wambui
On June 28th and June 29th, VAP, our Homeless World Cup Member Country in Kenya will host the Africa Women’s Cup, Brandon Green is in Nairobi to support preparations and spoke to Rosemaina Wambui, who played football with VAP and now teaches at the inspirational organisation which changes lives.
Step into the VAP (Vijana Amani Pamoja) facility, and just behind the first door, you will find Rosemaina Wambui in a warm, inviting space where she teaches tailoring and life skills with unwavering dedication. Her vibrant, skillfully crafted creations hang like silent stories upon the walls, each stitch a testament to her passion and care.
To spend time with Rosemaina is to be feel at peace, her spirit glows with kindness, compassion, and strength. It was an honor to hear her story, and in just a few moments, it becomes clear that she is driven by a deep passion to give back to the VAP community. Once a football player within the VAP organisation, Rosemaina has now returned as a teacher, dedicating herself to uplifting the next generation within the organization.
Rosemaina attended Kips College in Nairobi, Kenya where she perfected her craft of tailoring, however, she revealed that much of her skills were self taught.
During our conversation she wove together aprons using a Butterfly Sewing machine and told me that it is the chance to “help young women and mothers” through mentorship and life experience that drives her to work at VAP. Her teachings cover far more then just tailoring, including lessons on early pregnancy, gender-based violence and hygiene.
Rosemaina is undoubtedly a gifted tailor and teacher, and as VAP continues to touch lives, she stands as a shining beacon of hope for the community by empowering others not only through lessons but also by serving as a living example of a life dedicated to making the world a better place.
Find out more about the Africa Women’s Cup which is being hosted alongside VAP and kicks off on Saturday 28th June - Sunday 29th June in Nairobi, Kenya.