Elizabeth Dominic (23) from Tambura is one of the many youths benefiting from the Community Violence Reduction Project in Tambura, focused on empowering young people through livelihood skills training for socio-economic development. Elizabeth has always seen beauty as a way to express the inner peace and strength of women, dreaming of mastering the art of hairstyling. Despite her passion, she lacked the formal skills and could only admire the work of friends in local salons.

Her dream seemed distant as Tambura, once a peaceful, ethnically diverse community, was ravaged by communal violence in recent years. The unrest shattered the unity and stability Elizabeth grew up with, putting her aspirations on hold.

However, a ray of hope came through the skills training program. Elizabeth enrolled in a hair and salon management course, which helped her acquire the hairstyling skills she always desired. Now, she has not only mastered various hairstyles but has also become a standout artist in Tambura, particularly known for her intricate henna hand art, a skill that distinguishes her from her peers and is admired by many young women in the community.

Beyond earning a living through her newfound skills, Elizabeth is making a difference in her community. She reflects on the program’s impact, saying, “Before the training, I didn’t know many people from different communities, but now they have become like family. I’m happy to reconnect with people beyond my own community.“

Through her hairstyling and henna work, Elizabeth uses art to promote peace and offer healing to women affected by the conflict in Tambura. Grateful for the training provided by UNMISS and Star Trust Organisation (STO), she advocates for its continuation and expansion to meet the community’s growing needs. Elizabeth aims the program could be extended  to six months to ensure participants gain even deeper expertise.

The Community Violence Reduction Project, funded and supported by UNMISS Protection, Transition and Reintegration (PTR) Section, aims to empower youth economically, foster social cohesion, and promote peace in Tambura—an initiative that has not only transformed Elizabeth’s life but is also bridging divides within the community.