From a Petty Pap Sellerto Sewing Queen

From A Petty Pap Seller to Sewing Queen:
Mrs. Louisa Nkem’s Inspiring Journey to Reclaiming Her Future

In the vibrant heart of Lagos, where dreams often collide with harsh realities, Mrs. Nwafor Louisa Nkem was a determined mother grappling with financial instability. Once the proud owner of a small sewing business, Louisa’s aspirations had been thwarted by economic difficulties that forced her to shut down her shop. Her entrepreneurial spirit remained unbroken, but the road to recovery seemed steep and uncertain.

It was during this challenging time that Louisa discovered the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) program initiated by Center for the Advancement and Protection of the Rights of Vulnerable People (CAPRIGHTS-VP) through the Reclaim Your Future projected funded by OXFAM and implemented by The Voice and Incognito between 2022 and 2023.

It became a glimmer of hope—a chance to regain her footing. Through the VSLA, she was introduced to financial literacy training that illuminated the path to managing her finances wisely. More than just a saving scheme, VSLA became a lifeline, offering her the tools to plan, save, and invest in her future, “I saved diligently, invested wisely, and restarted my sewing business, even though in a smaller way,” Louisa reiterated.

With renewed determination, Louisa started saving and decided to pivot from selling pap on the streets to revitalizing her sewing business. She started modestly, working from home, but her skills and the support from VSLA empowered her to dream bigger. As her business began to flourish, she rented a small space in a bustling market. The transformation was remarkable; her products, now of higher quality, attracted a growing customer base eager to experience her craftsmanship.