NextGen Humanists Mozambique

Monapo, Nampula Province, Mozambique

Members:

• Maria Joaquim

• Ana Mabunda

• Lucinda Machel

• Teresa Nhantumbo

• João Mateus

• Carlos Mondlane

• Paulo Ernesto

• Manuel Chissano

• Alberto Macuácua

Email: cossbongani@gmail.com

Phone: +258 84 941 2622

Website or Facebook page? None

What does humanism mean to you?

Humanism means placing human dignity, reason, and compassion at the center of life while taking responsibility for our actions. Growing up in a culturally rich environment influenced by tradition and community values, we learned the importance of cooperation, respect, and shared responsibility.

Through humanism, we aim to combine these values with practical thinking and self-reliance. Instead of waiting for change, we believe in creating opportunities through effort, skills, and collaboration. In Mozambique, where many young people face unemployment and limited opportunities, humanism motivates us to focus on building sustainable livelihoods and supporting our community through practical solutions.

Project Description

NextGen Humanists Mozambique plans to establish a small leather products workshop that will produce items such as belts, wallets, sandals, and small bags using locally sourced leather and simple hand tools. Building on the success of our tire-recycling shoe project, this new initiative will allow us to expand our skills and increase our income by producing higher-value products that are in demand in local markets. The workshop will be managed and operated by group members, who will be trained in basic leather cutting, stitching, shaping, and finishing techniques. Materials will be sourced from local suppliers, supporting other small businesses while ensuring consistent production. The products will be sold within the community, local markets, and to small retailers at affordable but profitable prices. This project will not only create a new income stream for the group but also strengthen our entrepreneurship skills, improve product quality, and provide opportunities for growth and long-term sustainability.

Budget

Leather sheets and raw materials – $250

Cutting tools and knives – $80

Stitching tools (needles, thread, awls) – $70

Adhesives and finishing supplies – $60

Basic molds and shaping tools – $70

Protective materials (gloves, sharpening tools) – $70

Total Project Cost: $600

Expected Income:

Production of belts, wallets, sandals, and small leather goods

Estimated sales: $200–$400 per month depending on demand and production capacity

Timeline:

Week 1–2:

Purchase materials and organize workspace

Week 3–4:

Training and practice in leatherworking skills

Week 5 onward:

Start production and sales in local markets

Benefits to the Community

1 Creation of new income-generating opportunities

2 Development of practical leatherworking skills

3 Production of durable, high-quality local goods

4 Support for local supply chains and small businesses

5 Promotion of entrepreneurship and self-reliance

6 Strengthening of teamwork and community cooperation