Losing Everything
Salbiah and Ratina are two sisters who have turned their life around after losing everything in the Boxing Day tsunami. The sisters were away from Banda Aceh when the tsunami struck and had to wait two weeks before they could return home and search for their family. With nothing but the clothes they wore and the land upon which their house once stood, Salbiah and Ratina relied upon the kindness of strangers to provide for them. They have recently rebuilt their house using the donations they received, and both are now using donated sewing machines to make their living.
Starting Again
Having never worked before the tsunami, the sisters were eager for job
opportunities that would help them regain their lives. With no work experience, they were unsure of what they could do. But they were determined to help their family.
Their opportunity came when they heard about a training program run by YDS, Opportunity Australia’s partner in Aceh. Through one of their local Enterprise Development Centres, the sisters learnt the art of traditional handbag making over a two week course. Until now they had never dreamt they were capable of creating these intricate products. With their new skills they have been empowered to improve their family’s economic situation and are proud of what they have achieved.
Looking Forward
Salbiah and Ratina are now confident in their future and both are eagerly planning ways of expanding their skills and the variety of their products.
DSBN is pleased to announce our first “More than just business” initiative - sponsorship of a "Trust Bank" in West Timor by the end of 2006!
Eighty percent of the West Timor's population are considered poor and the majority live in rural areas where they are dependent on agricultural based activities for survival. The need in West Timor is great as its people continue their struggle to survive. Please contact us if you are interested in contributing.
Empowering small business owners!
