In 2026, with the generous support of the Manitoba Council for International Co-operation (MCIC) and the Blennerhassett Family Foundation, the Marquis Project has supported the construction of a new office and classroom space for Kusaidia African Life in Kampala, Uganda. This continues a five-year relationship with Kusaidia during which Marquis, with MCIC and the BFF, have supported the establishment of a very successful training program for young, under-served women in sewing and embroidery, in helping graduates find paid work or set up their own small enterprises, and in offering micro-loans to support their future efforts. The previous office and classroom space was dark, dilapidated and insecure and the new structure is going to help staff and students achieve their goals in a much better environment.
The Marquis Project is partnering with the Kusaidia African Life Initiative to develop and long term training and small business development program for economically disadvantaged young women in Uganda. In recent years, dozens of young women have been trained in sewing and embroidery, have been mentored in finding jobs or building their own small businesses, and taking advantage of small loan opportunities to help them succeed.
Funding support has come from donations to Marquis, generous grants from the Blennerhassett Family Foundation of Winnipeg, and matching funds from the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation. Funds have gone toward sewing machines, sewing supplies, training costs and small loans. Young women are also involved in discussion around gender and human rights in order to strengthen their confidence in moving forward sustainably with their lives and careers.
