Successful with my own business – Kenya

Mary is a seamstress in a rural community in Kenya. Her husband works as a carpenter in Nairobi. Nevertheless, the money they earn together is not enough to enable even one of their three children to progress beyond elementary school and learn a trade.

Mary’s eldest son wants to study a technical profession and Mary is working hard to earn money and support his dreams.  She also attends a self-help group run by the aid organization Hand in Hand International and supported by the Hilti Foundation, which teaches all the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed as a small farmer.

In addition to her tailoring business, Mary now owns a small cattle farm. The additional income is making everyday family life easier and, in time, it will also enable her son's career aspirations to become a reality.

This is the story of Mary.