March
3rd
2014

Bilkis Banu Pathan – Vatva, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Bilkisbanu, is a 35-year-old mother of two visually and mentally challenged children. As a member of a cooperative, she has learned the importance of savings and through Shanti Life has received a microfinance loan. With the help of some training, and mentoring, she took a loan for Rs.10, 000.00 (with a very low interest rate) and set up a grocery shop. She sells snacks and milk pouches at her shop. Her shop is helping to earn that extra income for the family. This gives her that advantage of working, earning some money, as well as looking after her family – especially her children who are mentally and visually challenged. She is now a role model for others and her repaid loan has gone to help someone else in need.