A loan and some business development training helped Zahira build a successful jewellery business.

'The tsunami and the conflict was a blow on top of a blow for me.  I was widowed and left alone in the world with a child. The Samurdhi aid was not sufficient to feed us and to send my child to school. I laboured hard to earn money, but as a result I became sick. Things became worse as I needed money for my medicine.

In search of relief, I joined Zlmya CBO in my village. I took a loan from the society to buy materials to make fancy jewellery. There is a good demand for fancy jewellery in my village, but I didn’t have enough money to increase the supply.

During this time I learnt that SAPSRI was focusing on a programme for low income, micro-business women, which gave me new hope. I was able to apply for a loan of 15,000 SLR without any business documents. I was lucky to attend their counselling program and the business development training.

Even though I am not an educated person, I have an inner drive and SAPSRI guided me in identifying my inner talent and skills. I was able to move away from my own sorrows and to listen to others’ and do my best to help them.

I learnt to improve my jewellery business. I now have my own shop to sell my jewellery and I earn a profit of about 7,000 SLR monthly.  I live a better life without depending on others and I am happy that I can spend the money on my child’s education.

I believe that if there is a will, there is a way – especially when you get proper guidance.'