LocationsGavrel ST Enterprise: A Story of Courage, Sisterhood, and New Beginnings
February 18, 2026
Maria Steven, 23, is preparing customers’ orders at their restaurant in Tong Ping, Juba
In 2017, in Tong Ping, Juba, seven strong and determined women, aged between 23 and 29, came together with one goal: to build a better future for themselves and their families. South Sudanese women face many unfair challenges caused by years of conflict, harmful cultural beliefs, poverty, and unequal treatment. These problems affect their rights, daily lives, and opportunities in areas like the law, society, and the economy. They formed Gevrel ST Enterprise, a name now well known in their community, not just for delicious food but also for bringing hope and second chances.
When they started, life was tough. They had no capital, no stock, and no steady income. Then came a turning point. In October 2023, Gavrel ST Enterprise received a 2 million SSP loan, generously supported by UNDP and the African Development Bank. With this support, they formalized their operations by opening a modest restaurant. Their success did not end here, as they started getting contracts to prepare meals for workshops and community events due to their quality food, commitment, and professionalism.
Today, their restaurant is thriving. They prepare and serve meals with pride and a strong sense of purpose. They have become reliable providers, now able to support their siblings, parents, and children by meeting essential needs, an achievement that once felt out of reach. They have also created employment opportunities for three young women who support the restaurant's daily operations.
Among those affected is Christine Nachiel, a 21-year-old orphan who dropped out of school due to financial hardship. Being employed at the restaurant gave her more than a livelihood. Through careful saving, Christine was able to re-enroll in Senior 4 and is looking forward to completing her studies and joining a university. She is also able to take care of her siblings’ basic needs.
Christine Nachiel, a 21-year-old one of the young ladies employed at the Gavrel restaurant.
But the story of Gavrel ST Enterprise does not end there. Sabia John, 25, one of the group members and a trained hairdresser through a vocational training program, saw another opportunity. Guided by passion, she convinced the group to invest some of their profits into a salon business. What started as a side venture soon became a second pillar of their enterprise.
Sabia John, 25 years works on a customer’s hair at the group’s salon.
The salon now employs three additional young women, all of whom have inspiring stories of transformation. Some have returned to university; others are saving to start businesses of their own. The group also offers training in hair and beauty, and so far, they have trained over 50 girls in the community, giving them not just a skill, but a steppingstone to a better life.
"To UNDP and the African Development Bank, thank you! You did not just give us a loan; you gave us back our future. You helped us believe in ourselves again. Because of your support, we are not just surviving, we are thriving, and we are lifting others with us." says Sabia John, 25 years, Chairlady.
The group received training in financial literacy and business management, which has transformed how they manage and grow their businesses. Through this training, they learned the importance of saving, budgeting, and reinvesting profits to ensure sustainability and expansion. These skills have helped them manage their finances more effectively and make informed decisions. The group is hopeful and has plans to expand both their restaurant and salon to new locations, to reach more customers and create additional employment opportunities for other young women in their community. This next phase of growth not only reflects their determination and hard work but also demonstrates how empowering women with the right tools and knowledge can drive meaningful, lasting change in society.
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