A fresh start in the face of hardships
Denis Kango, a 24-year-old refugee from South Sudan, had big dreams but limited opportunities. Forced to flee his home due to civil war, he resettled in Uganda’s Bidibidi Refugee Settlement with his parents and four siblings. With financial struggles hindering his education, Denis took a job as a mobile money agent, saving every coin he could. Determined to create his own source of income, he used his savings to open a barbershop.” However, he lacked the skills to run the business efficiently, forcing him to hire barbers who often fell short of customer expectations.
Denis soon found himself overwhelmed by customer complaints. The barbers he employed failed to deliver quality services, and dissatisfied clients became a common occurrence. “I could always get customer complaints about the barbers I had employed, not paying attention to detail and poor customer management,” Denis recalls. He knew something had to change if his business was to survive.
The turning point in the RETI skills training.
When Denis learned about the Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment and Transformation Initiative (RETI) skills training program, he saw a chance to turn things around. “The training came at a time when I needed it the most,” he says. Eager to take control of his business, he enrolled to learn haircutting techniques and customer service skills. The training covered various styles, including marine one, three layers, and brush level cuts. More than just technical skills, Denis also gained confidence in managing his business independently.
One of his trainers played a significant role in shaping his mindset. “My trainer, who is also currently my mentor, encouraged me to put more effort into learning, and that pushed me to take the training seriously,” Denis says.
A business reborn and gaining Independence
Equipped with newfound knowledge through the RETI Programme, Denis took full control of his business. “Now, I am back to manage my own business,” he proudly states. Working as both the barber and manager, he ensures quality service, leading to an increase in customer satisfaction and revenue.
Today, Denis makes a weekly profit of UGX 15,000 and diligently saves UGX 5,000 in the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) group established by DCA. His earnings help support his family, contribute to his siblings’ education, and provide for daily necessities. “Currently, I am stress-free, I earn money, and I am happy,” Denis shares.
Overcoming challenges and planning for the future
Despite his progress, Denis faces a significant challenge of power shortage. “The battery cannot retain power; it works during the day, but at night, it doesn’t, yet some customers prefer coming at night when they are free from work,” he explains. To tackle this, he is saving money to buy a new battery and an additional hair-cutting machine.
Looking ahead, Denis envisions expanding his barbershop into a training center for young people interested in the trade. “In three years, I want to have a bigger saloon where I can train other youth,” he says. He also plans to hire more employees to keep up with the growing demand.
Advice to fellow youth
Denis encourages other young people to embrace opportunities for skills training. “Some people want to work for me, but they lack the skills. I always refer them to apply for the training under RETI so they can also benefit,” he shares.
With determination, the right training, and a strong work ethic, Denis has transformed his life. His journey is proof that with the right support, anyone can rise from financial struggles to build a booming business.
About the project
Title: Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment and Transformation Initiative (RETI)
Period: 1st June 2023 – 31st May 2027
Partners: The program is being implemented through a consortium of nine partners: Muni, Gulu and Bishop Stuart University and Finn Church Aid, DanChurchAid, Community Empowerment for Rural Development, PALM Corps, Meeting Point Kitgum, and Young African Refugees for Integral Development.
Theme: Building Resilience
Amount: 27,350,000 USD
Outreach: 100,000 (60,000 female)
Donor: Mastercard Foundation
