A SNAPSHOT OF OUR IMPACT
Empowering the Journey of Kumba N. Fayiah
Kumba N. Fayiah lives in Monrovia, where the high cost of living often overwhelms the dreams and hard work of many families. She is a devoted mother of three: Alice (18), Henry (15), and Magdalene (13). Kumba faced the harsh realities of urban life, struggling to cover school fees, medical expenses, daily meals, and rent. With her modest income and growing responsibilities, life was an uphill battle.Kumba knew that something needed to change if she was to give her children a better future. That change came through a life-changing connection with the KENDEI Empowerment Foundation Microfinance (KEFM) program, which her church, the God’s Glory Free Pentecostal Church (GGFPC) introduced her to.
Being eager to break the cycle of hardship, Kumba enrolled in KEFM’s capacity-building training. There, she learned the fundamentals of managing business capital and the importance of compulsory savings – a lesson she credits as a turning point in her journey. With new skills and renewed determination, she began transforming her small trading activities into a growing
cross-border business. Kumba specializes in trading clothes, primarily for women and children, which she now sources from neighboring Guinea. This leap from local to international buying and selling marked a major milestone in her business journey. With support from KENDEI Empowerment Foundation Microfinance (KEFM) program, Kumba expanded her operations, enabling her to increase both her sales and savings.
Her story is one of visible transformation. From a woman burdened by financial challenges, Kumba has grown into a resilient entrepreneur. Her profits and savings enabled her to do what once seemed impossible – the purchase of a parcel of land and the construction of a two-bedroom home for her family. This achievement not only symbolizes financial stability but also reflects the dignity and security that Kumba has reclaimed for herself and her children. Today, Kumba is not just a trader; she’s an empowered mother, a homeowner, and a role model in her community.
Ellen’s Story – From Struggle to Strength
Ellen Uzonechine’s husband was out of work, and the burden of sustaining their household rested heavily on her shoulders. She ran a small provisions and food items business, which served as the family’s only source of income. Every need, such as school fees, daily meals, transportation, medical bills, and other essentials, had to be met from the little her business could bring in.
Despite her tireless efforts, the weight of responsibility was overwhelming. Her modest capital of just $250 offered little room for expansion or savings. The dream of scaling her business or improving her family’s situation seemed like a distant hope until a connection with KENDEI Empowerment Foundation Microfinance (KEFM) changed everything.
Through Abide in the Vine Church, Ellen was introduced to KENDEI, and joined a capacity-building training organized, where she gained transformative knowledge on business management and financial discipline. One of the key lessons that reshaped her thinking was understanding that a business loan is not personal money
– it must be repaid, and the repayment should come from profits, not capital. This mindset shift marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. With renewed insight and access to KENDEI’s support, Ellen made bold but wise investments in her business. Gradually, she began to see a turnaround. What started with just $250 has now grown into a business valued at USD 1,500, excluding her growing savings. Her daily sales have increased significantly, and she now has a financial cushion to fall back on – something she never had before.
Beyond the numbers, the impact of Ellen’s growth has been deeply personal and heartwarming. Her children’s living conditions are changing. One of them is now enrolled in a community college, and the others are steadily progressing through high school. The strain of school fees and daily expenses has eased, and their household environment is more stable and hopeful.
Ellen now saves regularly with KENDEI and continues to grow her business with confidence. Her journey from survival to stability is not just evidence of her resilience but a shining example of what targeted support, practical knowledge, and a willing spirit can achieve.