Change a Girl's Life Through Microentrepreneurship

Maureen  is a determined and hardworking internally displaced woman from Mudeka, one of the many affected by the ongoing crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. In the midst of hardship and uncertainty, Maureen has carved a path forward not just for herself but for her children through the humble yet powerful means of a small scale fish-selling business.

Her journey began when ReachOut social workers during a door-to-door identification exercise identified her and she was trained in business management, bookkeeping, savings and entrepreneurship. She was then supported with an initial grant of 57,200 FCFA ($102). With this capital, she started selling fresh fish within her community and in surrounding areas, fueled by a simple but powerful dream: to build a sustainable livelihood that would allow her to care for her children and uplift their living conditions.

Despite her modest start, Maureen quickly demonstrated discipline and a strong sense of responsibility. She diligently saved 5,000 FCFA($8) daily in her microfinance account a testament to her commitment to long-term growth. However, the journey was not without its challenges. Seasonal heavy rains disrupted the fish supply chain, severely impacting her primary source of income.

But Maureen didn’t give up. She adapted. Observing the changing needs of her customers, she made the strategic decision to diversify her business. She began selling cooked food and sliced eru, ensuring that her enterprise could continue serving the community while sustaining her household.

This turning point became even more impactful when she received a second grant of 114,400 FCFA.($204)  With this support, Maureen expanded her operations significantly. She began buying goods in bulk lowering costs and increasing profits. Her business grew to include essentials like waterleaf, eru and crayfish all in high demand. These new additions not only increased her income but also reinforced her place as a reliable vendor in her community.

Beyond the profits and product lists, Maureen's journey reflects profound personal transformation. With her increased income, she has been able to purchase a bed and a television, bringing newfound comfort and dignity into her home. Most importantly, she can now pay her children’s school fees, lifting a heavy burden from her shoulders and investing in the future she once feared was slipping away.

 With deep gratitude, Maureen shares:

“Thank you to  Reachout NGO and her partners  for all the support given to me. Because of this opportunity, I can now take care of myself and my children. My business has grown, and my hope for a better tomorrow is alive again.” Her story is a shining example of how even small support, when placed in the hands of someone resilient and determined can create lasting change.