Fefima (Frehiwot Birhanu)

Fefima's sweet smile is brighter than ever, and she radiates happiness and security since starting her business. She is the proud mother of one surviving child, an 11-year-old boy (she tragically lost two other children), and her HIV status is negative.

Before joining the program, Fefima struggled to make ends meet by doing odd jobs like washing clothes for a meager income. The program transformed her life, especially the lessons on money management, saving, and nutrition. She now carefully plans meals for her son, ensuring he has a nutritious diet, including a daily egg.

With newfound skills and determination, Fefima runs a business buying items from the Merkato market, such as shoes, to sell in her community for a profit. She has proudly saved 2,000 birr, maintains a tidy government housing unit, and takes immense pride in her accomplishments. Her son is overjoyed, sharing, "I hear my mother laughing again."

Fefima dreams of expanding her business and hopes to purchase a washing machine to offer laundry services for additional income. She diligently takes her medications, feels healthy, and cherishes the friendships she has built through the program.