As the six-month incubation period of Vuka small businesses comes to a close, we asked both Loom coaches and business owners what their highlights from this new initiative were.
“Moving from an unknown stage to a ‘Aha!’ That is my experience with coaching my clients. I grew in my ability to be an active listener, a motivator, and one who helps others spot opportunities for betterment around them.
“Walking alongside my clients to encourage them to keep pressing on and also to pray with them over the challenges they are facing have also been great personal growth opportunities and a spiritual journey where I learned to appreciate God’s perfect presence.”
– Eugenie, coach
“September and October actually I can say were real tough and busy months in my venture, chicks require a lots of attention, however they said, when the things go tough the tough get going, I manifested this coming true, now the dream is gradually coming true and my poultry farming is at the preparation to start harvesting on later November.”
– Ezekiel, business owner
“I have learnt a lot from others’ experience in working and benefits from pineapples. I surely celebrated when the pineapples were finally planted and growing so well. I have also been encouraged by my support group as we regularly connect in various ways like on phone mostly. I have changed my thinking by keeping business separate and focusing on how to make a profit. I have enjoyed having experienced people as a support system.”
– Irene, business owner
“Being able to do Vuka, my mind was opened to business, and I saw I could serve God without it interfering with business. I have grown mostly financially and emotionally. My ministry has grown. I look at money as under my control rather than being controlled by it. In selling my sheep, I will sell most, but not part with the one that I called ‘VUKA’.
– Carol, business owner
“I have been amazed by the faith, courage and determination I have seen in both [my coachees]. I loved walking the journey with them and I have learned so much about both the culture and the challenges of starting a business in Tanzania.”
– Heather, coach
“The more importance and attention I gave to details in the business in the feasibility questions, the less pressure there was later in the business. The details included listening to customers and asking good questions and also talking together with the team.”
– Jacinta, business owner
“A highlight for me was watching [my coachee’s] amazing ability to juggle new businesses, a food processing course, teaching at the school, as well as being part of the ministry leadership team and a pastor’s wife. Are you kidding me?”
– Kay, coach
“Vuka has done a lot in our lives. We have financial stability.”
– Miriam, business owner
“I thank God for this wonderful experience and opportunity of owning my own business…I am enjoying this business.”
– Mary Kazungu, business owner
