Fatima, 26, a resident of Brom Mufa district, Hadramawt Governorate, Yemen, holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and works part-time as a teacher. However, for many young people in Fatima and Yemen, finding sustainable employment, especially in their field of study, is a challenge. Economic instability and limited opportunities often leave young people struggling to provide for themselves or plan for a stable future.

Determined to change her circumstances, Fatima aspired to acquire a skill that would not only provide her with financial stability, but also empower her to make a meaningful contribution to her community. Her journey took a turning point when she joined the Sustainable Fisheries Development in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (SFISH) project, funded by the World Bank Middle East and North Africa in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme. and implemented together with a local partner. Small and Micro Enterprise Promotion Service (SMEPS).

“The knowledge and skills acquired were not limited to me but extended to my family, to whom I shared my experiences,” explained Fatima.

Fatima is receiving training in fish product manufacturing and occupational health and safety procedures, including both practical and theoretical components.

“I gained an insight that transformed me from an ordinary woman to an entrepreneur,” says Fatima. I learned the steps to set up my project and how to become an entrepreneur. In practice, I learned techniques for producing tuna, salted fish and haini. (a traditional fish dish). All these I applied in real life situations.”

On receiving the grant after the training, Fatima happily said, “I couldn’t afford any of these items: a refrigerator, oven, scale, household utensils, spice grinder, packaging machine, and occupational health and safety. Tools.It was a great relief for me and my family to have them all together.

When Fatima received her grant through the SFISH project, she began producing tuna under the brand name “Waves Tuna” and launched a successful marketing campaign on social media. The product became very popular, with high demand resulting in sold-out batches. Fatima sent a shipment to Aden Governorate to meet the demand, offering free samples which led to an increase in orders.

“I have established a competitive name in the market, and the demand for my product has been steadily increasing,” says Fatima, elated at the initial success of her project.

This success has encouraged him to consider expanding the production of other varieties such as lokham (dried fish), which has been experienced by his peers who ventured into these products after training.

However, relying on the fish market is a delicate balance, and after her training, which included risk assessment, Fatima learned to base her production on fish prices. She runs her business only during the season of buying cheap fish.

As a full-time teacher, Fatima carefully balances her responsibilities at school with her growing commitment to her new venture, and now spends her free hours diligently working on her project, growing her business. and applies the knowledge gained to increase its impact.

Fatima’s journey did not stop with her personal growth. She is actively passing on the skills learned to her family members, preparing them to support her and manage the business in case of future challenges. Through her dedication, she is not only improving her own life but also uplifting her community, showing how opportunities can ripple outward to create lasting change.

Further information: Development of sustainable fisheries in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden