My name is Shomantu Tesicha, a mother of three and the proud leader of the Rehoboth VSLA, which has now grown into a cooperative. Just a short time ago, life was very difficult.
I had no savings, no business, and no way to provide a better future for my children. Everything changed when I joined the VSLA supported by Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). We began saving just 50 birr per week, and at the same time, we received weekly training on saving, business skills, and entrepreneurship. These trainings gave me confidence and the knowledge to take my first step into business.
I borrowed 4,500 birr from our savings and started small: I bought two hens for 2,400 birr and began selling kocho. ESD also gave me in-kind support goat. That goat gave birth to two more, and suddenly, I was not only a businesswoman but also an animal farmer.
But my journey didn’t stop there. I invested in a large iron cooking pan, which I rent out in my neighborhood during ceremonies and festivals. On most weekends, people hire it from me for 500 birr per day, giving me an extra source of income.
Step by step, my businesses grew. From the money I earned, I was able to build a bigger house something I never dreamed of before. I even built a separate kitchen and shelter for my cattle, which improved the way we live. When my goats grew larger, I sold one and bought a donkey to help fetch water from faraway places, making daily life easier. On top of this, I started selling boiled potatoes with hot sauce, and I take on any small trade that is in demand in my area.
Today, I can proudly say I am self-sufficient. I can support my children, expand my businesses, and manage my life with dignity. Most importantly, people in my community now look up to me as a role model. They admire my hard work and determination, and I feel proud to show other women that change is possible.
All of this was made possible because of ESD’s training, guidance, and support. I started with nothing, but today I am a businesswoman, a farmer, a leader, and a role model in my community. For that, I am truly grateful.