Creating Lasting Change
Despite South Africa’s progress since apartheid, women in rural communities continue to be left behind. They face high unemployment, illiteracy, gender-based violence, and limited access to healthcare and opportunities.
Research shows that when women are supported in community, equipped with skills, and empowered to lead, they can transform their lives and the world around them.
Empower Women & Communities
Educated women transform futures.
Zimele walks alongside women as they have opportunities to learn that never existed before. Self-confidence, worth and knowledge grow and the entire family benefits.
Empowering women reduces poverty.
Research shows that when women earn income they are more likely than men to invest it in their families’ health, education, and nutrition — breaking the cycle of poverty. Zimele trains women with financial literacy, business and life skills to grow income and stability.
Develop Future Leaders
Build Sustainable Livelihoods
Women leaders strengthen communities.
When women lead, communities experience more collaboration, peace, and lasting social change. Zimele equips and empowers women to form support groups and lead local initiatives that uplift entire communities.
Our Results
Over 12,000 women have participated in Zimele programs, growing as leaders and entrepreneurs.
Their impact reaches far beyond their own households, with 34 social projects supporting widows, vulnerable children, youth, and homebound elders.
Over $104,500 USD has been collectively saved and accessed for loans by Zimele women.
Today, more than 6,000 women are active in Zimele savings circles, touching the lives of over 31,000 people in rural communities outside Durban.
6,190
Women trained
392
Savings Circles
270
Farmers Trained