Artisan Monthly Highlight | Mary Chengo
A R T I S A N M O N T H L Y H I G H L I G H T
MEET MARY CHENGO
What do you do at Imani Collective?
I mainly work at the cutting department in Mtepeni, but I help around in all other departments like washing wool and assisting in stuffing animals, cacti and doing final stitches on products.
What drew you to work for this company?
I was drawn to Imani Collective by the love I experienced through Jenny. Jenny didn't treat me with contempt regardless of our difference in culture and educational background, not to mention the language barrier. I was super excited when I learned that Imani Collective was a place that cared for women and that they trained people on sewing skills without charging them. I knew this was my chance to be taught something and make/do something for myself since I never had a chance to go to school at all.
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What is something you’ve done/you’re doing that makes your proud?
Being able to reconstruct my house and changing the thatch roof with iron sheets. Greatest achievement!
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What is your favorite food?
Ugali (which is almost kinda like corn bread) with chicken stew and greens on the side :)
Describe your ideal day:
Rise up early in the morning - go to market or stay at home relaxing, do house chores - after lunch perhaps visiting family - bond with kids in the evening
One last thing to live by,
Love God...Work hard
