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Symon Peter at There IS Hope School carpentry workshop

Turning Setbacks into Success

23-year-old Congolese Symon Peter from Dzaleka Refugee Camp is a carpentry student that has defied the odds to complete his supposedly 6 months course, in one year. His story is that of hope and hunger for success.

Symon lives in a modest home with his elder brother, a social worker with one of the international Organizations working in Dzaleka Camp. To support their household, Symon takes on piecework while attending vocational school in a carpentry and joinery at There Is Hope.

“I chose carpentry because it’s a skill I could easily learn and turn into a viable business,” Symon explained. “Everybody needs a carpenter someday, so I think there will always be work for me when I finish school.”

Symon dreams of opening his own workshop and training other young refugees who face limited opportunities like himself.

“I want to change the lives of refugee youths who currently have nothing to do,” he says determinedly.

Symon Peter relaxes at home

Symon Peter relaxes after completing piece works

However, the journey has not always been a smooth ride. In March 2024, as Symon was midway of his six months his training, life changed abruptly.

Beyond his control, Symon spent four months unable to attend classes. This resulted in missing the chance to graduate with his classmates in June 2024. His dreams of independence and stability seemed to slip away.

Refusing to let this setback define him, Symon returned to There Is Hope Vocational Centre, asking for a second chance to complete his course. With their support, he resumed his studies and completed his studies in December 2024. He now awaits his graduation, eager to realize his dreams.

“My ambition is to open a workshop here in Dzaleka camp and become my own boss,” he shared. Symon envisions providing for himself and his brother while helping others in the camp by offering skills training.

Building a Foundation for Success

At There Is Hope, Symon’s learning extended beyond carpentry. Through partnerships with organizations like Welthungerhilfe Malawi (WHH) in the Skills Up! project, he has received training in business incubation, entrepreneurship, life skills, and digital literacy. These lessons equipped him with tools to face challenges, run a business, and market his craft online.

“These extra skills have prepared me to establish a solid business and will give me a niche,” Symon said, especially excited about leveraging digital platforms for marketing.

Today, Symon reflects on his journey with gratitude. Despite the challenges, support from There Is Hope gave him a second chance to chase his dreams.

With his training complete and workshop plans underway, Symon is ready to carve a path of success – not only for himself but for others in the Dzaleka Refugee Camp striving for hope and opportunity.