Meet Joice, a very determined, highly motivated and sweet young woman. Her life's journey began with adversity, as she lost her stepfather at a young age and witnessed her mother's courageous struggle as a single parent. This made her eager to grow up and be able to support her beloved mother. From an early age, Joice suffered from unexplained seizures, which haunted her with uncertainty.
Despite the medical mysteries surrounding her illness, and still driven by a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference, Joice decided to attend a military academy, pursuing her dream of earning a full scholarship in civil engineering to Lisbon, Portugal. After his first year at university, medical tests eventually revealed that Joice suffered from epilepsy, leading to his discharge from the army and return to Bissau.
Forced to change careers, Joice decided to embrace the winds of change and focus on what she had always loved: sewing.
Her mother brought her a sewing machine and she began creating her own designs. Through friends in the neighborhood, she heard about SOS Children's Villages "Sangue Novo" and decided to enroll in the sewing course.
Although Joice loves to sew, she prefers to create her own designs. This allows him to give free rein to his creativity and to diversify the techniques taught a little more. What interests him most are backpacks and handbags. “I love spending time creating new and unique designs that you don't usually see in Bissau,” says Joice.
Today, Joice is an independent young woman. Her backpacks and handbags have won the hearts of loyal customers who appreciate her unique designs. With a vision that transcends borders, Joice dreams of establishing an international brand within 10 years, a brand that bears her name as a symbol of artistic innovation and dedication to her craft.
But his ambition does not stop at personal success; Joice's desire to give back to her community resonates deeply with her. I intend to offer internships to young people in Bissau and change their lives, just like “Sangue Novo” did for me,” says Joice.
*Written by Jessica Mendes da Silva