In the spirit of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the transformative journey of Sylvia, a participant in the Preparation for Social Action (PSA) program in Uganda, who went from job seeker to successful entrepreneur.

Initially seeking employment opportunities, Sylvia turned her focus towards leveraging the knowledge gained from the PSA program. Advised to channel her newfound capacities, she embarked on a vegetable growing project around her home. The Planting Crops unit of the program played a pivotal role in guiding her through the process of setting up a vegetable garden.

Opting to start with tomatoes and collard greens in her backyard garden, Sylvia’s joy was magnified as her neighbors and even her husband became her first customers. Her dedication during the harvesting period not only provided her family with fresh produce but also earned her income.

Motivated by the success of her vegetable project, Sylvia diligently saved the proceeds, contemplating the launch of another business. Seeking guidance once again from her PSA tutor, she explored various business ideas and settled on the prospect of selling sweet bananas alongside tomatoes. The calculations aligned with her available capital, leading her to purchase a small bunch of sweet bananas from a local marketplace.

Sylvia’s tenacity and strategic thinking bore fruit as her business expanded beyond expectations. Today, her stall not only features sweet bananas and tomatoes but also stocks an array of other products. The savings accumulated from her thriving business have not only improved her financial standing but have also fueled her ambition to support others in similar situations.

Recognizing the power of sharing knowledge and lifting others up, Sylvia generously imparted her business knowledge to a friend within the PSA group facing similar challenges. Inspired by Sylvia’s success, the friend initiated her own sweet banana project, and now the two ladies go together to the market, procuring products for sale in their community. This ripple effect of empowerment showcases the enduring impact that women can have on each other’s lives.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Sylvia’s story serves as a testament to the strength, resilience, and boundless potential within every woman. Through education, determination, and a supportive community, women like Sylvia are breaking barriers and shaping a future where every individual, irrespective of gender, can fulfill their potential and play a role in the building of a better world.