In Rangpur, Bangladesh, almost 4,200 people have become self-sufficient through a three-year Islamic Relief project. Providing vocational training and equipment to vulnerable members of the community, it has proven particularly life-changing for older people, who often face significant barriers to earning a living.
Coming together in groups, participants learned agricultural practices such as cow and poultry rearing. After presenting a business plan, they received an initial loan so they could start a new business. Fatima, 61, now earns a living selling produce from the cow and chicken she received, and treasures the support of her community group.
“With my earnings, I can support myself with everything I need. I am now leading a happy life and I strongly feel that I am not alone. Twenty-six group members are also with me.”