Success Story: Appoline Shiva Transforms Skills Training into a Thriving Business

From RETI Project Graduate to Owner of REHEMA SHOP

Refuge and Honey Center (RHC) is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Appoline Shiva, a graduate of the RETI Project implemented by RHC in partnership with YARID.

Appoline joined the RETI Project with a desire to learn practical skills that could help her build a better future. Through the sandal-making and entrepreneurship training, she gained valuable knowledge, hands-on experience, and the confidence needed to start her own business.

Following her successful completion of the training, Appoline was selected to receive a business grant from YARID. This financial support enabled her to purchase essential materials, equipment, and initial stock needed to launch her enterprise.

Today, Appoline is the proud owner of REHEMA SHOP, a growing business that produces and sells handmade sandals and other products within her community. The shop is providing her with a sustainable source of income and helping her become financially independent.

"The RETI Project gave me more than skills; it gave me hope and a new beginning. With the support from YARID and the training from Refuge and Honey Center, I was able to establish REHEMA SHOP and start earning a living for myself and my family," Appoline said.

Appoline's journey demonstrates the power of combining vocational skills training with business startup support. What began as a training opportunity has now become a successful livelihood initiative that is improving her quality of life and inspiring other young women and youth in Nakivale Refugee Settlement.

The success of REHEMA SHOP reflects the broader goal of the RETI Project: empowering refugees and host community members with practical skills, entrepreneurship opportunities, and pathways toward self-reliance.

Refuge and Honey Center extends its sincere appreciation to YARID for investing in young entrepreneurs and creating opportunities that lead to lasting change. We congratulate Appoline Shiva on her determination, hard work, and business success.

Project Impact

• Participant successfully completed sandal-making training.

• Received business startup support through a YARID grant.

• Established REHEMA SHOP.

• Created a sustainable source of income.

• Became a role model for other aspiring entrepreneurs.

About REHEMA SHOP

REHEMA SHOP specializes in the production and sale of quality handmade sandals and related products. The business continues to grow and serves customers within Nakivale Refugee Settlement and surrounding communities.

This success story is proof that when skills, opportunity, and determination come together, lives are transformed and communities become stronger.