Improving financial, business and leadership skills in women of refugee background

Purpose of research project *

The Food Moves Skills into Migrant Women project, funded by the Ecstra Foundation, was a transformative applied research initiative that empowered African migrant women in regional Australia. In partnership with Food Next Door Coop, Macquarie Business School, and the Co-op Federation, the project guided three African women in establishing a regenerative farm-and-food-related business, while also sharing these skills with other women in their community.

The project focused on providing leadership, financial literacy, and business mentorship, with the aim of improving the financial stability, mental health, and social integration of African farmers with refugee backgrounds. It also addressed climate change and land misuse in regions like Mildura, Victoria, and Nowra, NSW.

An essential aspect of the project was the development of linguistically inclusive resources and culturally sensitive interventions to support these women. With additional funding from the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation through the Eldon & Anne Foote Trust Grants program, the project translated its materials into Swahili, extending its reach to more African women whose English skills were still developing.

By combining sustainable business practices, community empowerment, and environmental solutions, this project not only fostered economic independence but also created a lasting impact on the wellbeing and integration of migrant communities. It stood as a model for research that drove meaningful, long-term change.

Who has, is or will benefit *

The main and direct beneficiaries of the research project were the mentees of the program—three African female farmers with refugee backgrounds, based in Mildura, VIC, and Nowra, NSW. The project provided leadership, financial literacy, and business mentorship skills to these women. Importantly, the mentees have become community trainers and have passed on their knowledge to other refugees, improving the financial stability, and social integration of African farmers with refugee backgrounds. Therefore, a significant share of the targeted community has benefited, since the project has reduced skill and capability gaps among female migrant farmers through education, improving their life and work readiness. The outcomes of the project, i.e., the created culturally appropriate materials, visually design-translation content, peer-to-peer learning and practical on-site training approach will continue to provide benefits to more members of the community.

Description of impact *

The impact of the project was significant, with 100% of the participants benefiting after the proof-of-concept phase. Three African women leaders were the direct recipients of the program. Following the pilot program, the initiative's influence extended beyond the immediate participants. The mentees not only developed their leadership and business skills but also took on the role of mentoring and empowering an additional 10 women across their communities. Reports indicate improved financial decision-making, greater application of sound business practices, and the creation of micro-businesses, further expanding the project’s positive outcomes. These lasting results underscore the project's ability to create a self-sustaining model for economic empowerment and community development. Ripple effects helped to foster a culture of collaboration, shared knowledge, and mutual support, resulting in a deep sense of inclusion and belonging.
Food Next Door, the hosting organisation, reported a notable increase in women's participation in the farm, leading to the creation of a dedicated 'Women’s Patch' to further support this involvement. Community members expressed a strong sense of inclusion and belonging, highlighting the project's positive influence in their confidence, business aspirations and significant financial acumen. In Mildura, the broader community reported a growing positive perception of new arrivals engaged in the project, demonstrating the lasting impact on social integration, community cohesion, and sustainable food practices.
Overall, the project's long-term impact is reflected in the strengthened community bonds, the increased empowerment of women, and the promotion of environmentally sustainable practices, which will continue to benefit the region for years to come.

Impact date	31 Aug 2021 → 31 Jul 2024
Category of impact	Economy impacts, Culture impacts, Environment impacts, Organisation impacts, Society impacts
Impact level	Mature benefit