Adamasay's Resilience: Turning Struggle into Success with a School Uniform Business

Adamasay, a 38-year-old mother of three from Lunsar, started her school uniform business after the civil war in Sierra Leone, driven by an upsetting experience when her daughter was sent home from school for not having a proper uniform. At the time, Adamasay was a local farmer, growing food primarily for her family’s daily needs. However, she struggled to afford even the most essential items, making it impossible for her to buy a uniform for her child.

Determined to ensure that her children wouldn’t face the same challenges, Adamasay decided to start a uniform business. She was determined to keep her children in school and spare her daughter from the embarrassment she had faced. Her daughter, who was known as "Fankadama" in school due to her mismatched clothing, became the inspiration behind the business.

With an initial personal investment of 200NLE (£7), Adamasay began selling uniforms, which not only helped provide for her family but also supported other families in the community by providing them with the appropriate clothing.

However, the Ebola outbreak brought additional hardship. With schools closed to prevent the spread of the disease, Adamasay's business struggled, and her savings were depleted. It was during this challenging time that she discovered Reseed’s Microfinance Programme, which offered low-interest loans compared to other lenders in the area. Seeing a lifeline, she requested a loan of 1,000NLE (£37) to restart her business.

After successfully completing the loan cycle, Adamasay applied for a larger loan of Le 2,500 to expand and improve her business. This support has since become a steady source of income for her family, covering both their daily needs and her children’s schooling, as her husband is elderly and unable to work.

Thanks to the support from Reseed, Adamasay has been able to overcome adversity and provide a brighter future for her children, ensuring they stay in school and have the opportunity for a better life.