In many communities, certain careers are still seen as “men’s work” or “women’s work.” But for 21-year-old Jennie Kuyenda, passion and skill matter more than stereotypes.Born and raised in GDC Ngumbe along Zalewa Road in Blantyre, Jennie’s love for cars started early. Growing up, she would spend time watching her father work as a mechanic, helping him whenever she could. What began as curiosity soon became a passion.“I was always fascinated by how cars worked,” she says. “Helping my dad made me fall in love with mechanics.”Today, Jennie is an apprentice at Soche Technical College, pursuing Automobile Mechanics, a field still dominated by men. During her internship at Protech Diagnostics, a local garage, she proved her dedication through hard work and commitment. Her mentor played a big role in shaping her skills, teaching her the practical knowledge that strengthened her confidence.Entering a male-dominated industry was not without its challenges. But instead of being intimidated, Jennie saw it as motivation.“I wanted to challenge the boys and prove myself,” she explains. “I just focused on doing my work, and in the end, they respected that.”Although there are a few female mechanics, Jennie says the support among her female colleagues is strong. They encourage one another and push forward together, guided by passion rather than negativity. Jennie believes the biggest barrier is perception, not ability.“People think mechanics is a man’s job,” she says. “But if you have the skills and passion, you are capable. Chilichonse nchotheka ukayikapo mtima.”Her dream is clear, to open her own garage, fix cars, share the skills she has gained, and contribute to Malawi’s development by empowering others through technical knowledge.To young girls who doubt whether they belong in technical trades, Jennie has a simple but powerful message:“Skills have no gender. We bring a different perspective. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”Jennie’s story shows that when passion is matched with determination, barriers can be broken and futures shaped through skills. As technical colleges across Malawi prepare to welcome a new intake of pre-apprentices, her journey is a powerful reminder of what TEVET truly represents, discovering purpose, building practical skills, and preparing for the future, one trade at a time
