Meet Diana: "I Feel Financially Secure"
I am Diana and this is my story.
Before I joined Grameen America, my husband and I sold perfume door to door in Manhattan. We would transport the perfume in our backpacks and in the bottom of our son’s stroller, showing our products to potential customers on the street.
It was a difficult time. My son was only three years old. It was freezing during the winter and we struggled to be outside for long periods of time.
I had applied for small business loans at multiple banks. I wasn't able to meet their collateral requirements as I didn’t have an established credit score and was considered credit invisible. Everywhere I asked said no.
I was very disappointed because no one would help me.
My mom had been a member of Grameen America for two years and encouraged me to join. I was reluctant because I had previously been declined loans through traditional avenues. But I thought,"Why not just see what happens?" That's how I became a member of Grameen America, six years ago.
My first loan was for $1,000. I was very happy. In six months I was able to access another loan which encouraged me to work even harder. Now, I own Aroma D'Angel and I sell perfume, clothing and accessories from my own storefront.
These days, I feel financially secure.
Our lives have transformed since having access to loan capital. We used to spend our days selling perfume on the street and now we're able to spend time together as a family. Now that we have our own store, our lives are easier and I'm able to work flexible hours.
Grameen America works with women to help them establish their own businesses. I am proof that with their support, dreams can become a reality. When you attend a weekly Grameen America center meeting, you build a bond with the other women in your community and they become part of your family. Whenever I need help, I know there’s a support system that I can count on.
With loans from Grameen America, I have seen my credit score grow. I can count on Grameen America for another loan in the future and I know that I'll be able to grow my business and continue to create a better life for my two children.
Thank you for supporting women like myself to become successful entrepreneurs. You have made an impact in my life.
We thank you for supporting women like Diana become successful business women. This Giving Tuesday, every donation helps transform a community across the country. Give back today.
