Power the potential of women and girls

Zin is charging ahead with her career as a small business owner, seamstress, and teacher.

When Zin was a little girl, she loved school. Her father carried her there each day because she was so eager to go. “My family has always supported me and given me courage,” she shared.

She attended school until the third grade, but after that, she had to drop out to stay at home and help with household chores.

Zin was just like the other little girls in her community in most ways: She was an eager learner, and she had boundless potential. But she was born with a congenital disability impacting both her hands and feet.

She experienced discrimination throughout her life, particularly when she was young. But over the years, as Zin has become more independent and earned a steady income, she has become a respected business woman in her community. 

Zin lives in Sin Kue Village, located in the state of Kayin in Myanmar. She is 31 years old, and lives with her mother, niece, and nephew.

A few years ago, when she was 25 years old, Zin taught herself to sew by taking apart different pieces of clothing to see how they were put together.

Today, she runs a sewing business in her neighborhood.

“Sewing requires the use of hands and feet to control the sewing machine and use the scissors for cutting the fabric,” Zin explained. “Since I am physically disabled, I had to spend more time and effort on training than other people.”

But Zin never gave up. Despite the barriers she faced, she saw an opportunity with sewing, and she was determined to make the most of it. She quickly became faster and more proficient at sewing.

“Since I got used to it and became familiar with it, I can usually sew 2 sets a day. I sew at a higher price for those who want their clothes done quickly.”

About a year after starting her sewing business, Zin saw its potential to grow. She met with BRAC staff in Myanmar, who connected her to training on how to run a business and save and invest money. She also received support that allowed her to buy more fabrics, so that her sewing business could offer a wider variety of options.

“Training from BRAC pointed out the key factors for beginning a business as well as how to control income, expenses, and savings, which made it useful for me,” Zin shared.

Zin also expanded her business by adding another revenue stream: offering sewing lessons for other women in her community who are interested in learning how to sew.

Today, she continues to have ambitious goals for her business.

“I strongly believe that nothing is impossible if you are passionate, confident, and interested in your work,” Zin shared. “My long-term goal is to expand the sewing classes, and also sell a range of fabrics for sewing in a small grocery store.”

Zin is just one of thousands of smart, hardworking women who have built thriving businesses with support from BRAC. She is proud of all she has accomplished.

“There are many proudest moments in my life,” Zin shared. “Among them, I was very proud of myself when I learned sewing, which I loved and wanted to do. And I feel incredibly pleased and joyful when I think about the kids I’ve taught and the chance I’ve had to share what I’ve learned.”

Links:

• Support women like Zin