Brenda Francisca Méndez Ñurinda is an entrepreneur and mother of two who lives in Nicaragua. Like her family of origin, both economic struggles and perseverance are part of the story for Brenda and her children. “I come from a family with few economic resources; large, but very hardworking,” she shares. After participating in a program with PWS&D’s partner in her community, Brenda is embracing her newfound entrepreneurial skills to take steps towards breaking the cycle of poverty for her family.
At 26, Brenda has been a mother for 10 years. The first several years of Brenda’s motherhood were marked by violence within her home. After getting out of the abusive relationship, Brenda sought work at the local market, where she received little pay for her work.
Once again seeking better conditions to provide for her two children, she began working for her mother-in-law. In this assistive role, she did not grow her skills nor make any decisions.
When she became involved in the INPRHU (Institute for Human Promotion) program, Brenda began to develop more confidence. “I started the soft skills workshops, and I realized how many strengths I have, my value as a person and that I still need to achieve my goals. I am letting go of my shyness.” The project focuses on education related to gender-based violence as well as increasing economic opportunities for participants.
“Each workshop strengthened me. I found a space to share, learn and improve my self-esteem as a woman and mother. My children are my greatest motivation. I decided to resume my high school studies on Sundays, and I am proud of my achievements. Now, I am an entrepreneur.”
One of the ways Brenda is embracing her newfound courage is through starting her own business. Having won a seed fund, she began her shop Intimate Clothing Las Dos Hermanas, a store offering undergarments for all tastes and sizes. “It is a small but cozy space. Every day I open and beautifully set up the space. I make decisions such as buying in bulk, selling and reinvesting in what customers are looking for the most.”
Safeguarding Adults and Children at Risk
In Nicaragua, seven out of 10 women between the ages of 15 and 49 have suffered physical, emotional, or sexual violence from an intimate partner. The inequality in power relations between men and women, as well as the limited autonomy and lack of economic and social resources for women, have contributed to this high rate of sexual and gender-based violence. PWS&D’s work through partner INPRHU is helping safeguard adults and children by advocating for equitable and non-violent relationships in which both partners function as a team. As a result of this programming both adults and youth are learning how to prevent and respond to gender-based violence in their homes as well as their communities. They are also developing skills for social and economic growth so that, like Brenda, they can embrace a different future. “Now I feel empowered, that little by little I have fulfilled my goals and I can teach my children to dream.”
