Nafisa Rafiatu Adams joined Kumvana to grow her skills as a social entrepreneur and community leader. Her business, Beads of Hope, had modest beginnings as a ten-person operation and has since grown to employ nearly fifty women – many of whom were previously her community’s most vulnerable: rescued child brides, teenage mothers, and girls engaged in child prostitution. Nafisa is proud that her beaded jewellery has been able to offer an alternative source of income for these women, and that her business may provide inspiration for future female entrepreneurs.

Nafisa’s business is not an EWB-supported Venture, but while in Canada, she hopes to connect with members of the EWB community who could develop a partnership with Beads of Hope. She believes that such cross-cultural exchange and collaboration will not only help the women involved in her business, but also any Canadians who might participate.