The journey of transformation out of poverty begins with the opportunity to receive a small loan. But for so many of the mothers we meet, they receive a lot more than money in their first loan cycle.

Here are four things that shouldn’t be overlooked:

1. Vision

Poverty can be defined as a lack of choice about the food you eat, the clothes you wear, whether you can afford an education for your children and much more. I also think it goes even deeper than that. Poverty attacks your ability to realise, or even have, hopes and dreams. But a small loan allows mothers to dream about what businesses they can start; how they can give their children brighter futures; and helps them picture a life free from poverty – for good.

2. Self-belief

Mothers who receive small loans often join loan groups – women who meet regularly as a network of support and encouragement. Seeing how other women have started their businesses and the changes that have taken place in their lives gives new group members the self-belief to make their dreams a reality too.

3. Determination

Mothers are very good stewards of small loans. 94% of Opportunity’s clients are women, and they repay their loans 98% of the time. Their good stewardship stems from their determination to provide a better life for their children. Loan after loan, they invest the profits of their business into their children, putting food on the table, paying for medicine when they’re sick, buying school books and uniforms.

4. Dignity

Mothers in poverty find a great sense of dignity and purpose by starting a small business. With little to no education themselves, these mothers are empowered, often for the first time, to become providers, which boosts their self-confidence and restores the dignity that is inherently theirs. A small loan was the hand-up they needed to get on their feet.

I thought I’d always remain in the dump as a scavenger and if I stayed there I was worthless. So I strived and worked hard. After six months, I paid off what I borrowed and now I’ve got my own store!

Ana, mother-of-four from the Philippines

We see mothers living in poverty as women with the strength, determination and ability to change the future for generations to come. And it’s all thanks to your giving that this so often becomes a reality.

Watch the video below from The Opportunity International Network to see the impact of an opportunity on a mother’s life.

 

 

At Opportunity International Australia, Stephanie Hristovska is the Communications Coordinator, supporting the organisation in a range of communications activities.