Photo by Pavithran Golconda
“Coming from a poor family, feeding my children was a daily challenge for me, so I never really dreamt of becoming an entrepreneur. But today, I am a proud social entrepreneur. I am a RUDIben, selling grains, spices, and other products to rural households. These products are produced by informal sector producers and small and marginal farmers from the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) who promoted RUDI (Rural Distribution), a producer company.
The courage to believe in myself, the confidence to go out and work, and the opportunities to become an entrepreneur stemmed from the faith my mentors showed in me. Nobody limited my access based on formal qualifications or certificates before giving me an opportunity to become a RUDIben. I only studied up to the 7th standard, but with continuous training and awareness, I was able to use technology in my business to better manage my inventory and offer timely services to my customers.
I was able to get a loan for my business and bought a bike for the speedy delivery of products to customers. My customers are hardworking wage-laborer women who are only able to buy grains and spices on a daily basis. I supply them with clean and nutritious ingredients at their doorstep. They give me blessings and tell me the health issues in their homes have gone down, their time in cleaning is saved, and they can provide nutritious food to their family, all because of my products.
Currently, I am selling Rs. 1 lakh worth of products per month, and by this year, I want to reach a turnover of Rs. 2 lakhs per month. I feel proud of my journey to becoming an entrepreneur. I feel like a role model for other women, including poor women. With my income, I am proud that I have built a concrete and safe home for my children.”
– Mubarakben Sipai, Entrepreneur, SEWA RUDI
Reposted from: USAID India
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