Agriculture to Entrepreneurship: Faida Furaha's Empowering Journey with VSLA MUTULA
Meet Faida Furaha, a 27-year-old resident of Luvungi (DRC) and a mother of six children. Her life took a transformative turn when she became a member of VSLA MUTULA in 2020, and today, she is filled with gratitude for the organization EBEN-EZER/PLANT WITH PURPOSE, which brought them the knowledge of savings and credit through VSLAs.
Before joining VSLA, Faida faced challenges in accessing funds for any activity beyond agriculture, her daily means of survival. She had learned sewing skills but lacked the means to afford a sewing machine. However, her life changed after participating in the first cycle of the VSLA group. With newfound savings, she initiated a thrift store activity, selling second-hand clothes. This venture proved fruitful, allowing her to purchase a sewing machine and realize her dream of becoming a seamstress.
I had learned to use the sewing machine but I had no way to afford this machine.
With pride, Faida put her sewing skills into practice, and she smiles as she witnesses the positive impact of VSLA on her life. She is quick to recommend others to join VSLA groups, recognizing it as the key to development for those who lack access to traditional banking services.
Today, Faida continues to save diligently while pursuing her sewing business. The income from her sewing activities enables her to pay daily laborers working on her agricultural fields and meet various household needs. Faida's vision extends beyond her current achievements; she dreams of establishing a large sewing workshop, a testament to her determination and ambition.
I dream of having a large sewing workshop thanks to all who contributed to the success of this program.
This inspiring story highlights the life-changing power of VSLA MUTULA, which has empowered Faida to transition from an agriculturist to a successful seamstress and entrepreneur. The VSLA's impact reaches beyond financial growth, enabling individuals like Faida to realize their potential, uplift their families, and contribute to their communities' progress. Faida's journey stands as a shining example of how access to knowledge, savings, and credit can open doors of opportunity and bring about positive, lasting change in the lives of individuals and their communities.
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