Overcoming Skepticism, Finding Financial Independence: Lillian’s Remarkable Entrepreneurial Journey

“This training hasn’t just changed my life—it’s transformed our entire family’s future.”

These words from Lillian, an entrepreneur trained by a Street Business School Community-Based Trainer (CBT), are golden to us.

From Skepticism to Enthusiasm

As a young mother of two with no income source, Lillian’s days passed without direction. “I was just at home doing nothing, sleeping all day. I had never thought about starting a business,” she admits. That was all about to change! 

The transformation began with an unexpected visit from an SBS trainer to her home. Though initially skeptical, Lillian’s curiosity prevailed. As the training progressed, its potential became clear, particularly because the trainers were familiar faces from her community. “It was easy to trust them and approach them with questions.” 

Small Investments Yield Big Returns

Inspired by what she learned in the “Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone” module, Lillian didn’t wait for the training to conclude before taking her first entrepreneurial step. She made a bold decision: using money her husband had left for household expenses ($16.27), she purchased onions and tomatoes to start her business. “I saved little by little from what was left after household needs, and that’s what I used to begin,” she says proudly.

Following SBS’s principle of starting small and reinvesting profits, Lillian methodically expanded her venture. Her vegetable stall now offers a diverse selection including plantains, potatoes, and cabbage, generating a steady daily profit of $2.71. More importantly, it has given her financial independence.

“I realized that when I started working, there were things I didn’t need to ask my husband for anymore. I can afford things I couldn’t before the training.” 

Looking Forward

The impact extends beyond Lillian’s household. Her success has inspired others in her community, with many SBS graduates following in her entrepreneurial footsteps. Now expecting her third child, Lillian faces the future with confidence, backed by her business savings. 

The ongoing mentorship from her SBS coach, Olivia, remains crucial to Lillian’s growth. “I still consult my coach, Olivia, whenever things aren’t adding up,” she shares, highlighting the importance of having a trusted mentor within reach. 

Lillian’s story demonstrates how targeted training and community support can empower young mothers to become successful entrepreneurs, creating lasting change for themselves and their families. 

To reach more women like Lillian, who transform the futures of their families and communities, please give to the Seeing is Believing Campaign at Give.StreetBusinessSchool.org.