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Eugenie Mushimiyemariya has four children (two of her own and two who are adopted). She started tailoring four years ago. Through the Family Strengthening Micro-loans program, she received 100,000 RWF ($110 USD) to boost her business after the pandemic. She has been attending the workshop to gain knowledge about marketing. She was able to sell products in the exhibition and received orders from Mercer University students, which amounted to 72,000 RWF ($90 USD).
“I enjoyed working with the students. They visited my business, and we brainstormed together ways to improve my business. Now I have a clear understanding of business and how I want to grow it. I’m so happy and grateful for their support,” said Vestine. “My business helps me to support my family; before I couldn’t afford to provide even one meal a day to my kids. I’m grateful that I can get one meal a day for them now, and that makes me feel happy and empowered to keep supporting my family”
Stories: Welcome
Justine Uwamahoro (left), has five children, and one child is sponsored by MindLeaps. After finishing training in tailoring, Uwamahoro decided to start her own business. Right before the pandemic, she was forced to relocate her business because her previous location (the Nyamirambo market) was demolished. Luckily, Uwamahoro received a micro-loan from MindLeaps and continues to work in her neighborhood. She currently has a market size of 100 – 200 people interested in her business (clothing).“Working with students opened up my mind, and now I see the possibility of growth for the business,” said Uwamahoro.“In groups, we were able to discuss and come up with a good recommendation for my business. For example, I know that I need to save more so that I can have more sewing machines to increase my sales or hire someone to work for me. I’m planning to buy a smartphone and market my product through WhatsApp, or pair with Cyprien to grow the business.”
Stories: Welcome
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