There are always people who are going to be better than you, brighter, more innovative, better skilled, more beautiful, more focused, the list is endless. How one uses this information is what really matters. Will you give up and let others dominate as you become irrelevant or will you fight on and leave a mark?
As if this is not enough, there are situations that could limit you and others could be obstacles to achieving what you would want to achieve in life. These could be in terms of poverty, racism, ageism, gender inequality among others. One does not choose where to be born, which color or gender to be, but we can mould our future such that we become what we want and live the lives we desire. It is up to oneself to make sure to remain relevant in whatever one does. This is what the members of Na Sisi Tupo, a lending group from MYC4 provider Fanikiwa Microfinance Company Ltd, are doing.
Who are they?
Na Sisi Tupo, which literally translates to “We are also here”, is a group of five women from Kihinani, Zanzibar. They have refused to remain in the status quo and decided to stay relevant in their families and society. They wanted to be involved in the building of the economy of their families, help their husbands in paying of their children’s school fees as well as look for ways to own land and build homes. They believe that “two hands are better than one”, and that a good home is built by both partners. They know that contributing to their homes’ economy will bring more success than just waiting for their husbands to do everything for them.
This group was formed in 2007 with the aim of formalizing their merry-go- round saving scheme and to take care of their families. The first loan this group took was used to train them in handicraft making which saw them gain skills and knowledge that they use to date. They at first started by selling their end products which are mats and bags to friends and people around them. This has however changed and they now supply their beautiful products to a handicraft shop in Zanzibar that supplies to both the local and international market. The group came to MYC4 through Fanikiwa and borrowed €1,135 to buy raw materials such as sisal, threads, leather and fabric in bulk for mass production.
We refuse to live in the status quo, we are relevant; a positive attitude is important and when you believe in your product, then your customers also will do the same and you will go places!
In everything you do, in your day to day life, strive to leave a mark in people’s lives. It could be in making an impact in the industry you are in or simply leaving heart prints. Do not procrastinate, do not be limited, refuse to just sit, be relevant!
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