Barulaganye Gadibolae

I am a thirty four year old woman from Bobonong. I met with the Gender Links for the first time in 2014. I have learned a lot of things through the Gender Links program which I thought were only for the educated people. I have gained confidence in myself, I managed to go to the council to ask for help with funding to start and business and I had a proposal. I still await response from the social and community development about funding.
I attended all the trainings from Gender Links as I felt they were very important in my life was going to change forever. I learnt how to do research about the business I want to start in order to determine if it would be successful. It was very difficult in the 1st place to understand the lessons but I asked for assistance from the facilitators. With help from the facilitators I was able to complete my business plan. I did not have a business and never thought I could have my own and be able to operate it with confidence but now with the information and knowledge I have I am ready and willing. Though I have not started my business I have taken a step to start my business. Gender Links has helped me to be a proud person and not look down upon myself. I am at the verge of breaking the cycle of poverty.
I experienced abuse from my in-laws as they took my property after I got out of my marriage. And after my marriage I met a boyfriend who was also physically abusive. After meeting Gender Links I started dealing with my emotions. They taught me to be independent and have since broke up with my abusive boyfriend, it is not the end of the world. I know that I can do whatever I want as long as I put my mind to it.
I truly believe that when I am financially independent I will be able eliminate abusive situation/incidents in my life because I will be able to support my children. I talk to other women on issues of abuse and advise them to seek assistance from relevant offices and not allow abuse to swallow them up.
In 2030 I wish to see my business doing good and hiring many people from my village. I want to have more poultries around the sub district and sell not only meat but eggs as well. Finally I would like to say that having your own business is no joke it needs patience, kind and intelligent person who is willing to learn.