Meet Rogelio Gerilla – a TSKI Trust
Bank leader who has a remarkable story of how microfinance has increased his monthly income by 600%. Not only that, but it has also enabled him to do what he enjoys most – training and empowering others.
Growing the business
Rogelio first heard about TSKI through a community information briefing in 2002. He joined a TSKI Trust Bank group and borrowed 3,000 pesos (A$76.40), which enabled him to make a down payment on a tricad (push bike with passenger cart). His monthly income from leasing the tricad was 2,000 pesos (A$50.95).
On his fifth loan cycle Rogelio borrowed 10,000 pesos (A$254.70) and after investing in additional tricads, his monthly income rose to 12,000 pesos (A$305.65). In November 2005, Rogelio received his sixth loan of 15,000 pesos (A$382.05), which he used to place a down payment on a tricycle (motorbike with passenger cart). He now leases the tricycle along with the tricads, earning further income for his family.
Serving as a leader
When asked what he enjoys
most about being a client of Opportunity International, Rogelio smiles as he shares about his role as group leader. He loves to serve others and assist his fellow Trust Bank members through difficult times. Rogelio also proudly shares how he has volunteered to lead a training session for other Trust Bank leaders. He looks forward to being involved in facilitating these meetings over the next couple of months. Rogelio says, “I want to share my experience with other leaders so they may be able to learn how best to lead and motivate their members. It is important that they receive advice and encouragement from other leaders who are in the same position.”
Rogelio says it is not easy being a group leader because he encounters members with different personalities and problems, however he enjoys the challenge and feels that he has personally grown through this leadership role. Rogelio enjoys the friendships he has formed both within the Trust Bank group and outside of TSKI. Before joining the group he hardly knew anyone in his local community, but now everyone knows him and he is involved in several community activities.
DSBN is pleased to announce our first “More than just business” initiative - sponsorship of a "Trust Bank" in West Timor.
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!
