Agriculture

Sharefa had so much potential inside her. Then one small loan opened up the world…

Listening to Sharefa today you would never guess that this vibrant woman was ever timid and shy. Before she got involved with her local microfinance loan program, Sharefa led a very sheltered life. Her husband was very strict and did not like her to go outside of their home. So Sharefa stayed inside, caring for her family but never involving herself much with her community or the outside world.

But Sharefa wanted to contribute more to her family and develop more as a person. When she learned about the small business loans and training that microfinance provided to women like her, she knew she had found a great opportunity. Her husband also saw the possibilities that could come from his wife being involved in a business and he supported her in applying for a loan.

Through the program, Sharefa received a loan of about $125 – enough to buy start-up materials like seeds, fertilizer and pesticides for the garden she would run as her business. Sharefa also learned about modern farming methods and how to use simple technology to get the best yields. Her garden flourished and Sharefa was excited to see how her business was enabling her to provide more for her family – her children can now even go to school!

“With the help of this loan, I became a good leader and gained respect from the villagers – both men and women,” says Sharefa. “Now women come to me for advice on their own businesses. I am even invited to the men’s community development council meetings to discuss community problems and offer solutions based on what I’ve learned through my experiences.”

“Before, I didn’t know who I was or what I could do. Now I feel good knowing I have the ability to help my neighbors, my family and friends. I am so thankful for this opportunity.”