When Tesfanesh Gizaw looks back on her life, she describes it as a journey of resilience, growth, and transformation. Now a thriving entrepreneur and a beacon of hope for many, Tesfanesh attributes her success to the support she received from the Organization for Women in Self Employment (WISE) program. Her story is one of discovering hidden potential and turning challenges into opportunities.
Born into a middle-class family, Tesfanesh’s life took a drastic turn after the passing of her father. As the youngest member of her household, with her older siblings married and living their own lives, she suddenly found herself responsible for her family’s wellbeing at a tender age. Despite her determination to complete her education, she had to balance school with work, taking on traditionally male jobs to keep her family afloat.
In a bid to improve her circumstances, Tesfanesh traveled to a Middle Eastern country in search of work, only to return four years later upon hearing about her sister’s illness. Tragically, her sister passed away, leaving Tesfanesh with the responsibility of raising her two nieces. “Life had thrown one challenge after another, but I knew I couldn’t give up,” she recalls.
Determined to build a better future, Tesfanesh married in 2008. Her husband, whom she lovingly describes as her pillar of strength, shared her dreams of a brighter future. Together, they welcomed two children. Yet, despite her efforts, including working multiple jobs and completing a design course in Artistic Printing Press, financial stability remained elusive.
It was during a funeral wake in 2016 that Tesfanesh’s life took an unexpected turn. Ms. Wolansa Assefa, the founder of the Addis Hiwot Savings and Credit Cooperative, recognized Tesfanesh’s potential and encouraged her to join WISE. That encouragement became a turning point in her life.
“Joining WISE was like finding a new family,” Tesfanesh says. “The training I received helped me uncover abilities I didn’t even know I had. It gave me the confidence and practical skills to start my journey toward financial independence.”
With her first loan, Tesfanesh began a small business, saving diligently and investing in her dreams. From renting a small shop and purchasing a laminating machine to eventually owning a printing press, her hard work and determination paid off. She soon expanded her ventures, purchasing a RIDE taxi with a loan from the Union of WISE SACCOs. Her business grew steadily, enabling her to acquire a second RIDE taxi through an Equb (a traditional Ethiopian savings association).
Today, Tesfanesh owns four RIDE taxis, a thriving printing business, and employs seven individuals. Her monthly income has reached an impressive 60,000 Birr, and her total wealth is estimated at over 9 million Birr. She has also invested in advanced equipment, such as a t-shirt printing machine, funded through loans that she confidently repays on time.
Her success has not gone unnoticed. “Many people are amazed at the transformation in my life,” Tesfanesh shares. “I tell them that WISE made it possible, but not enough people know about this incredible organization.”
For Tesfanesh, the journey has been about more than financial success. She is proud to provide employment opportunities for others and hopes to inspire young people to believe in their potential. “My message to women, especially those facing hardships, is simple: Start small. Have confidence in yourself. No job is insignificant if it helps you grow. And remember, WISE will be there to support you.”
Looking to the future, Tesfanesh envisions even greater growth—not just for herself but for the community. She believes WISE’s work can transform countless lives if more people are aware of its mission. “I hope WISE expands its outreach, perhaps through the media, so it can reach more underprivileged women like me.”
With heartfelt gratitude, Tesfanesh credits Ms. Wolansa and the WISE team for their unwavering support. “They believed in me when life seemed impossible. For that, I will always be thankful.”
Tesfanesh’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of empowerment and self-belief. From a young girl burdened with responsibilities to a successful entrepreneur, her journey is a shining example of what’s possible when potential meets opportunity.
