2025 Success Story 1: Improving Health, Assets, and Daily Discipline

That was before Vida Ayine participated in the financial literacy and mental health trainings organised by the Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) in partnership with the KGL Foundation.

Vida is a seamstress from Gambibgo who, prior to the training, spent most of her income without a clear savings plan. She did not save with any group and had no long-term financial goals. Through the training, she learned practical business management skills, the importance of saving with purpose, and how to invest in productive assets.

Today, Vida saves consistently through her group and has added susu savings arrangement. She has also increased her weekly contributions and now saves with a clear goal in mind: to purchase a fridge so she can start selling cold drinks and diversify her income. “Every saving I make is moving me closer to that dream,” she explains.

Vida also began investing differently. Using her savings, she purchased a goat, a dog, and a chicken, distributing them among her children so they could take ownership and responsibility. The chicken has since grown into a fowl, the goat is pregnant, and the dog now helps protect their home. Her children are proud and excited to care for their animals, with even the youngest asking when it will be her turn.

The mental health and wellness component of the training brought equally important changes. Vida previously relied on a bicycle to keep fit, which she later gave to her child for school transport. She then depended heavily on tricycles, which reduced her physical activity. After the training, she adopted walking to the market and her shop as part of her daily exercise routine. Health screenings conducted during the training revealed that she was overweight, prompting her to adjust her diet, exercise more, and drink more water.

As a result, Vida reports significant improvements in her physical and mental well-being. She can now bend easily, no longer experiences bloating, and feels more energetic and disciplined in managing both her business and household.

“These trainings didn’t just teach me about money,” Vida reflects. “They helped me change my habits, improve my health, support my children, and plan for my future.”

This is what empowerment looks like