A gazelle is a small antelope found in many parts of Africa. It is known for its alert nature and ability to respond quickly. Coincidentally, it is also a local beer that tastes pretty good at the end of a hot African day.

Gazelles

In 2016, Toolbox Travel took a group of six women to Senegal to participate in the distribution of tools. They were so moved and inspired by the people they met they created a special component of the Toolbox Initiative called the Gazelles, a fund that responds to unique circumstances in ways that can literally change the lives of jewelers and their families. Perhaps the best way to describe the program is through two examples.

Ahmadou Bamba Kassé

On our first visit to Senegal one of the first people we met was Bamba Kassé, a jeweler with a big heart and a warm smile. On a visit he invited us to his home where we met his parents, his four children and his wife, Karime. We learned that she is a seamstress but her sewing machine was broken. We asked how much it would cost for a new machine and the answer was $300. In other words, for this relatively small amount, a one-income family could become a two-income family. Private funds appeared and a week later we received photos of Karime with her new machine along with this message:

“I am so glad to meet and know this wonderful team named Toolbox Initiative which gives us tools, knowledge and so much more. My wife has received the machine from their last visit to Dakar. We are very glad for them. Here is the new machine with my darling Karime. Thank you Toolbox.”

*Bamba Cassé greeting Matthieu in his small workshop.*

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Are you a Gazelle? If you would like your donation to go into this program, just let us know.