In the heart of Ulipur, Kurigram, lives Marufa Begum, a woman whose life story embodies resilience and determination. Born into poverty in Talukbyalka, Gaibandha, Marufa faced immense challenges from an early age. Her father, an agricultural laborer, passed away when she was just two years old, leaving her mother to shoulder the weight of financial hardship.
Marufa’s childhood was marked by scarcity—she had just one dress, no shoes, and often went hungry. Despite these struggles, she excelled in school, consistently ranking among the top in her class. However, her education was cut short in the sixth grade due to financial constraints and societal pressures, leading to her marriage at the tender age of 13.
Early Marriage and Hardship
Marufa’s married life brought new challenges. With her husband unemployed and no stable income, they lived in a broken bamboo room once used for cattle. They barely managed one or two meals a day, often relying on loans from neighbors and non-governmental organizations to survive. Tragedy struck again in 2008 when her newborn child passed away just 22 days after birth.
Financial struggles persisted, and in 2015, her husband suffered a leg injury that required an expensive treatment. The family’s debt grew, and they often had to leave their house to avoid debt collectors. Despite these challenges, Marufa remained determined to create a better future for her family.
A Turning Point: The SHOYE Project
In 2022, Marufa’s life began to change. She attended a village meeting where she was introduced to the SHOYE Project, implemented by MJSKS. Shortly after, she was selected as a youth group member and received livelihood support, including three goats, four ducks, and three chickens.
This support became a turning point in Marufa’s life. After a year, she sold her goats for BDT 48,000, which she used to purchase a cow. Income from selling poultry and eggs allowed her to open a small tea shop in front of her home. The tea shop, operated by Marufa and her husband, now serves as a stable source of income.
Building a Sustainable Future
Today, Marufa’s family earns a total monthly income of BDT 15,000, with Marufa contributing BDT 3,000 through her various livelihood activities. The income supports her children’s education, ensures a nutritious diet for the family, and allows her to care for her elderly mother and mother-in-law.
Marufa’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination have not only improved her family’s financial stability but have also inspired her to dream bigger. She plans to sell her cattle and invest in purchasing land to grow rice, securing a sustainable future for her family.
A Message of Hope
Reflecting on her journey, Marufa shares,
“I want to expand my livelihood options so that I never face financial challenges again in my life.”
Marufa’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of community support and self-determination. It highlights the importance of empowering individuals through targeted interventions, fostering resilience, and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Join the Movement
Marufa’s journey is just one example of how initiatives like the SHOYE Project can transform lives. At ART Lab, we are committed to sharing stories of resilience and driving impactful change through evidence-based solutions.
How can we work together to empower more women like Marufa?
Let’s continue to champion sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind.
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