In the heart of Burkina Faso, in the Village of Villy Bongo, I met an extraordinary woman named Tene. Her aura was that of grace and resilience. Her voice, filled with memories of a lost love, echoed in the alleyways as she sang songs of sorrow and triumph, narrating the tale of her life.
Having lost her husband in her early twenties, she stood as a beacon of strength amidst life’s adversities. In a society where familial ties are as thick as blood, she was “adopted” by her husband’s family. While her in-laws went about their daily business, Tene was the lighthouse guiding the young ones and tending to the clan animals. Her song was poignant – a reminder of love lost, but promises kept. A testament that even though her husband was gone, she managed to uphold her commitment and provide her son with a college education.
It was during this time that Tene became a participant in the SELEVER II project. This initiative was a beacon of hope for women like her. Through SELEVER, she not only got an opportunity to empower herself economically, but she also became a part of a larger community, striving towards a shared goal.
Our involvement as the School of Business Administration was to refine the approach to financial management within SME groups through technological means. And it was here that our paths converged. Observing Tene’s interactions with the financial app we developed for SELEVER II was humbling. Despite her limited literacy skills, her determination to understand and utilize the technology was inspiring.
Towards the end of our stay, Tene invited us to her home, a space she took great pride in. A vivid green garden stood as a testament to her hard work and dedication, and her chickens, the very source of her son’s education, roamed freely, pecking at the ground. It was a harmonious sight, a juxtaposition of nature and nurture.
The journey with Tene taught us much more than we anticipated. It wasn’t just about the financial app or technology. It was about witnessing the strength of human spirit, understanding the power of perseverance, and realizing that even small endeavors can lead to transformative outcomes.
In the warm embrace of Tene’s hospitality, we realized the importance of our mission. Today, as members of the School of Business Administration, we pledge to serve communities, making a meaningful difference in the lives of people like Tene. Her story, her determination, and her success, will forever remain etched in our hearts, reminding us of the purpose behind our endeavors.
