June 30, 2025
News
Leaving one's home and starting a new life in a foreign country is no easy task. Yet for many refugees, it is the only solution — just like for John, who fled from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Zambia. After his home was destroyed, John, together with his wife and eight children, found new home in the Meheba refugee settlement in Zambia, where they have now lived for 12 years.
From a difficult start to running his own business
When John first arrived in Zambia, he had no stable source of income and had to rely on help from others. However, he never gave up. He used his tailoring skills and, with the support of Caritas Czech Republic, completed training that helped him start his own business — together with his family, he established a tailoring workshop.
We also provided John with sewing machines and helped him connect with various business partners, which significantly boosted the growth of his enterprise. "Without enough equipment, work was very hard, but now it’s much better," John shares. Today, his workshop employs 16 people who produce school uniforms and workwear while also passing on their knowledge to others in the community.
"Sewing allowed me to stand on my own feet and at the same time help others," says John, who continues to train new tailors and seamstresses. Thanks to his success, John is also able to financially support his parents and ensure them a more comfortable life for them.
His story is an inspiration to everyone who, despite difficult beginnings, strives for self-sufficiency and a dignified life.
Caritas Czech Republic helps refugees start over
Zambia is home to more than 100,000 refugees seeking a new beginning. Caritas Czech Republic has been supporting refugees in Zambia for many years through vocational training, financial assistance, and by connecting them with markets and employers. We help people like John realisze their potential, achieve self-reliance, and build a better future for themselves and their families.
Our support for refugees in Zambia is made possible thanks to the financial assistance of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Access to higher education is also provided through DAFI scholarship programmes. We can continue helping thanks to the generosity of donors who contribute to supporting people in need.
We thank everyone who makes this help possible.
Donate chance for better future
