Venezuelan Women Empowered in Colombia by UNHCR

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Colombia and globally is committed to safeguarding refugees and forcibly displaced individuals, offering sustainable solutions. Through the Graduation Model program, Venezuelan women in Colombia are being empowered in their entrepreneurial endeavors to secure a prosperous future.

Launched in 2019, the Graduation Model empowers forcibly displaced Venezuelans in Colombia to rebuild their lives with dignity and financial stability. Through workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs, participants acquire the skills needed to establish small businesses and achieve economic self-reliance. They learn essential aspects of entrepreneurship such as business management, finance, marketing, and customer service.

UNHCR supports Venezuelan refugees in Colombia

Yuli, a Venezuelan who arrived in Colombia with her two children in 2019, seeking refuge from violence and instability, struggled initially to find employment and ensure her son’s education. Referred to UNHCR by a local humanitarian aid partner in Medellin, Yuli joined the Graduation Model program and began her journey towards financial independence. Equipped with newfound skills in jewelry making and business management, Yuli established her own successful business, Creaciones Andremar (AndreMar Creations), achieving financial stability and independence.

“I learned to be independent and to generate my own income,” Yuli says. “I started my business, and now I’m very financially stable.” With the support and her hard work, Yuli has transformed her life. Her future now is full of options. Yuli remarks, “This has been a journey of empowerment and finding peace and security.”

Venezuelan women’s entrepreneurial skills flourish

Similarly, Yexica, a college graduate and media professional from Venezuela, found herself facing economic challenges in Colombia after her arrival in 2017. In Medellin, Yexica and her sisters started making cakes and other sweets to sell in the neighborhood. With the support of UNHCR in the Graduation Model program, and receiving help to get proper documentation, Yexica transitioned from selling cakes on the streets to launching her own small business. Through hard work and guidance Yexica’s business flourished, enabling her to support her sisters and bring her parents to Colombia.

“Participating in the Graduation Model was interesting, both in terms of the knowledge I gained and the professional support I received,” shares Yexica. “I was able to expand my business by working hard and with the help from UNHCR.”

In both cases, the Graduation Model program, with help from Senior Field Associates with UNHCR like Jorge Alzate, has been instrumental in empowering Venezuelan women like Yuli and Yexica, offering them a pathway to economic independence and a brighter future.