Story interpreted and written by Johnsie Woods
"My team and I have expanded beekeeping into two more communities in my county. We can do baiting, hive maintenance and colony inspection. We know we will share beekeeping with more women soon." - Roseline
I began beekeeping in 2022. I was trained in Blorquelleh, my home village, by Universal Outreach*. When beekeeping came to my community, I reluctantly wrote my name on the list. During the training, I felt uncertain about having the courage to be a beekeeper. After the training, we were given three beehives and other beekeeping equipment to get us started. I was also selected as chair lady for my women’s beekeeping group.
I found beekeeping challenging the first year, but with the extension worker's assistance, I gradually learned how to do it. While I was learning, I didn’t get bee's but this year 2 of my three hives are colonized and I know I will taste the sweetness of honey money.
Beekeeping has changed my life. I used to be a shy person who never moved around. Now I'm active and extroverted because I have a skill to share. Beekeeping has given me a voice in my family and community–everyone knows me as the Lead Beekeeper.
I was fortunate to attend last year's National Beekeeping Convention in Kolahun, Lofa County. During the convention, I was encouraged by the success stories of other beekeepers, which made me more determined to invest in beekeeping.
After the conference, I started teaching others beekeeping. My team and I have expanded beekeeping into two more communities in my county. We can do baiting, hive maintenance and colony inspection. We know we will share beekeeping with more women soon.
*We'd like to thank Harbourside Victoria Rotary Club for funding this impactful project and catalyzing more women to improve their economic position through beekeeping.