Bayat's story captures the strength and resilience of an individual navigating challenges and turning them into opportunities. Her determination to improve her family's circumstances, coupled with the support from Project Ethiopia, exemplifies the impact of microloans in fostering entrepreneurship and financial independence.

Sitotaw's story is a testament to resilience and community support. Through Project Ethiopia's microloans, he transformed from a struggling daily laborer into a prosperous farmer. His investments in livestock and transport services boosted his income, securing his family's future and contributing to his community. Today, he inspires others by sharing his journey towards success.

Yebirgual expanded her honey and dairy production with the help of Project Ethiopia, becoming one of the few pioneer women beekeepers in the region and significantly increasing her income.

What would a small business or budding entrepreneur be able to do with a loan of $300 in the U.S.? Likely not very much. However, in rural Ethiopia, a loan this size can make a very significant difference in the life and livelihood of the loan recipient and their family.

Independence is something all humans crave. We all desire the power to make our own decisions, provide for our family, and be financially independent. When we have these things, it instills confidence, security, and joy in us. For many parts of the world a microloan is the start to independence.

Work in the new year is well underway to bring new schools, safe water, dry homes, better sanitation, and farming support to communities throughout the Dangla area.

This past October, I had the privilege to travel to Dangla, meet the Project Ethiopia team, and visit many of our project sites. It was a quick and jam-packed week. From participating in the University Transition Awards ceremony within a couple of hours of our arrival, to witnessing the formation of two new farmers’ associations complete with a very lively nomination process to select the leadership, to visiting 10 schools helped by our project, I was so inspired by all that has been accomplished and the clear vision for what is yet to be done.

Perhaps you know about Project Ethiopia’s efforts to increase access to education and build healthy village communities, but do you know about our work bringing farmers together to learn new ideas, address the challenges many face on their farms, and share solutions?