Inspire Malawians Out of Poverty

Brenda Mwenitete is the hardworking owner of a knitting shop in the Chitipa Market. She recalls the challenges she faced before approaching Opportunity, struggling to earn a profit without a knitting machine.

You gave Brenda the opportunity and today, with the right equipment, she has increased production and her income significantly. With operating capital, she has effectively reduced the number of trips into Lilongwe, the capital city, to purchase raw materials –  traveling once per month instead of weekly has allowed her to lower costs, increasing her net profit. With a broader inventory and improved ability to fill orders, she has broken the barriers that barred her from earning a profit. Brenda recently purchased two knitting machines and hired an employee, stretching her impact beyond her own transformation to extend to the larger community influencing the economy through job creation. She enjoys the relationship she has with her Trust Group and praises the way in which bank staff visits customers frequently to mentor and support. “My loan officer has been my lifeline, instilling a sense of belonging in the community.” Brenda has transformed into a respected businesswoman and she has employed her new sense of confidence to take on a leadership role as group secretary.

Brenda formed the dream; you gave her the opportunity to make it a reality. On behalf of Betha and Brenda and thousands of other families, thank you very much for your partnership.  

Links:

• http://www.opportunity.org