From Failed Business to Flourishing Enterprise: One Mother’s Remarkable Transformation 

“I never knew you could start businesses with no money, but during that session, I realized over 10 opportunities I could begin.”

These words mark the turning point in Joyce Nabalanzi’s entrepreneurial journey—a journey that would transform her from a discouraged former clothes seller into a successful multi-business owner. 

At 38, Joyce had nearly abandoned her business dreams. After her clothing venture faltered, she found herself in a familiar trap: waiting for capital that seemed increasingly out of reach. “I used to sell clothes, but it wasn’t going well. I decided to pause and wait,” she recalls, her voice reflecting the frustration of that time. 

Everything changed when Street Business School’s Community-Based Training (CBT) entered her life. Initially attending out of curiosity, Joyce quickly found herself captivated. “After the first module, I was determined to stay until the end. I was always looking forward to the next session.” 

Starting Small

The training challenged Joyce’s fundamental assumptions about business. She took bold action—selling her phone and shoes to raise $13.65 for her first venture: a chicken business. 

Starting with just five chickens, Joyce was amazed by her initial success. “I was surprised how fast the business moved. They sold out in less than a week,” she beams. That first $4.09 in profit became the foundation for expansion, allowing her to purchase 20 more chickens. 

Diversification and Growth

Today, her business portfolio includes popcorn production, soap manufacturing with school supply contracts, and a revitalized secondhand clothing business—this time built on solid business principles. 

The bookkeeping module also proved particularly transformative. “It opened my eyes to why I wasn’t seeing profits from my businesses in the past,” Joyce explains. She also learned crucial lessons about market visibility: “I used to keep my chickens in the backyard instead of bringing them to the front where people could see them. The training helped me see what I was doing wrong.” 

A Community of Support and Transformation

Central to Joyce’s success was the supportive environment created by community-based trainers. “I was comfortable asking them anything I didn’t understand,” she shares. “Even after graduation, I still consult with them whenever I bump into them.” 

The impact extends beyond Joyce’s personal success. In her village, she’s witnessed a broader transformation.

“Women have started working hard. The community is different now.”  

Her story stands as powerful testimony to how proper training and support can help determined entrepreneurs overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. 

To make a real difference to a woman, her family, and community, please give to the Seeing is Believing Campaign, at give.streetbusinessschool.org.