bbc.com
Orkney Charity Empowers Zimbabwean Prisoners Through Knitting
An Orkney charity, GoGo Olive, founded in 2008 by Julie Hagan, employs 40 female prisoners in Zimbabwe to knit toy animals, supporting their economic independence and reducing recidivism; the charity has also built a house of refuge to help women in difficult circumstances.
English
United Kingdom
Gogo Olive
Julie HaganRuth Green
- How does the GoGo Olive charity impact the lives of female prisoners in Zimbabwe and the broader community?
- An Orkney charity, GoGo Olive, provides knitting work to 40 female prisoners in Mutare Remand Prison, Zimbabwe, enabling them to earn income and reduce recidivism. The charity sells the knitted toy animals online and in Orkney shops, supporting the women's economic independence. One worker has re-offended in 16 years.
- What are the systemic factors that make this charity model effective in reducing recidivism and empowering women in Zimbabwe?
- GoGo Olive's success demonstrates the positive impact of providing stable employment and skills training to marginalized groups. By connecting the prisoners with a market for their work, the charity addresses unemployment and reduces stigma associated with incarceration. This model combats recidivism and facilitates successful reintegration into society.
- What are the potential challenges and opportunities for scaling this model to other regions with similar social and economic disparities?
- The GoGo Olive model could be replicated in other countries to offer alternative solutions to incarceration and poverty. Expanding access to vocational training and fair trade opportunities can help reduce crime rates and empower marginalized women. The charity's success highlights the potential of community-based initiatives to address systemic issues.