Empowering Girls in TA Mchinguza, Machinga: A Story of Confidence, Business, and Change

Youth Impact, in partnership with the Embassy of Ireland and the Malawi Girl Guides Association (MAGGA), made a meaningful visit to Traditional Authority (TA) Mchinguza in Machinga. The purpose? To connect with Safe Space mentors and mentees and learn more about the impact these spaces are having on the lives of girls and young women in the area. The Safe Space program is a powerful initiative that creates safe, supportive environments for girls to meet regularly, learn life skills, and build self-esteem. And during this visit, it was clear that the program is doing exactly that. Throughout the engagement, participants opened up and shared heartfelt stories about their personal journeys. Many spoke about how being part of a Safe Space has helped them grow — emotionally, mentally, and socially. They now feel more confident, informed, and empowered to make smart decisions about their futures. Another key focus of the visit was to see how the seed money provided to each Safe Space has been used. The response was uplifting: most of the groups reported that they are using the funds to launch small businesses and form savings groups. These activities are not just bringing in income — they are teaching young women how to manage money, save for the future, and become financially independent. It was a moment of reflection, learning, and celebration. The visit highlighted how community-led efforts — with the right support — can bring lasting change. What’s happening in TA Mchinguza is more than just a program; it’s a movement toward empowering the next generation of women leaders and entrepreneurs.