The Climate Resilient Microfinance project focuses on working with both lenders and borrowers to trial ways to ‘climate-proof’ activities and ensure that services better meet women’s needs, gathering learning that could help trigger change within the microfinance industry more broadly. In this ITL newsletter update, we hear from two project participants, Farida and Nilufa, on how the ITL project has resulted in positive impacts on their lives and their families’ lives.
Farida’s story
Farida lived with her parents and struggled to support her two children as a single mother working numerous jobs (from working in construction to working in garment factories). Farida participated in a training program on raising chickens through the ITL project, which provided her with valuable knowledge and resources. The ITL project also provided financial support which enabled Farida to expand her poultry farm, starting with 400 chickens and 40 ducklings. With the assistance of local partner,GUK, she also learned to cultivate climate-resilient vegetables in her backyard.
As Farida’s businesses flourished, the ITL project became integral to her journey. Through community meetings, the project promoted discussions about gender equality and women’s rights, enhancing awareness and tolerance in the community.
Today, Farida is a self-sufficient entrepreneur, confidently seeking advice on various matters related to her family and farming. Her son is pursuing higher education in Gazipur, while her daughter has been able to continue her education. Farida has also secured a low-interest loan from the National Bank thanks to the ITL project, which has enabled her to expand her poultry operations.
The ITL project cultivates self-reliance and confidence through workshops, facilitating access to larger loans for ambitious ventures. Farida exemplifies this success, having established a reputation for reliability by repaying her loans on time.
“Peace be upon you. I am Farida Khatun. I live in Baghmara and am a member of the ITL project. I have been involved with the ITL project for a year and a half. Previously I didn’t have much cash. Now I am able to access loans from National Bank and also some loans from the ITL project. I was able to buy chickens and ducks. Through this project I am being trained to raise poultry and have also been trained in vegetable cultivation. With the profits I will pay loan installments and save some of it. I'm also buying a goat. Previously men and women were very separate. Now we can discuss and understand that in fact, both men and women are equal, and if both work together, then our family life will be better.”
Nilufa’s story
Nilufa, an enterprising, and determined woman, is now living a happy life with her husband and two children. Despite societal expectations, she did not want to limit herself to household chores. With a desire to utilise her education, she sought to contribute to the family’s income and improve their financial stability. Her husband, Dulal, influenced by traditional patriarchal beliefs, was initially resistant. However with the support of GUK staff, Dulal gradually changed his perspective. He now recognises the value of partnership in both family life and financial decision-making.
As you can see through the video below, ITL project partner, GUK, is helping Nilufa and others achieve greater gender equality in their communities.