NEAMA OWNS A BEAUTY SALON IN MOKATTAM VILLAGE — a place known more for its trash than for its beauty. Often called "Garbage Village," it's where generations of Christian Egyptians have eked out a living processing Cairo's garbage. But not Neama. Not anymore.
Neama comes from a family of garbage recyclers, but she was determined to forge a different life. So she learned to do make-up and cut hair, and opened her own salon. With the help of a $200 TOLI microloan — and despite the fact she can't read or write — her business took off. Soon Neama saw a chance to give someone else a hand up in the same way.
When Neama met Aua, a 12-year-old Muslim girl left alone to be the sole provider for her grandparents, she knew she needed to hire her. Aua now assists Neama in the salon, getting valuable experience for herself and vital income for her family, while helping Neama make clients feel beautiful and valued every day.
Above, beauty salon owner Neama (left) and Aua, her assistant and mentee. Below, two garbage recyclers in Mokattam.
Neama is determined that her own three kids have a better future, too. She insists they stay in school and work hard. She's even begun renting a small shop for her teenage son, so he can start a business of his own soon.
The ripple effect of TOLI's investment in Neama is clear — the cycle of poverty is being broken in two families, jobs are being created, the community is changing. And, among TOLI clients, her story is not that unusual.
"It's all about mindset," says Neama about her success.
Orphan care and job creation are two key indicators of lasting transformation through TOLI's program. In 2020, one-third of TOLI's clients reported that they provide care for orphans. And 20 percent reported employing others through their small business.
"It's all about mindset," Neama says about her success. We give thanks to God for Neama's renewed mind and generous heart, and how he's using it to bring hope, redemption, and beauty to so many.
COME EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF HOPE IN THE MOST UNEXPECTED PLACES.
Around the world, brave women and men are dreaming new dreams and finding new purpose through TOLI’s Christ-centered microloan program. At Taste & See: Come to the Table 2021, we invite you to come walk in their shoes, learn their stories, and celebrate their gifts. What you discover may surprise you.
You don't want to miss this unforgettable event. Tables and tickets are going fast, so reserve your spot today. Here's how:
HOST A TABLE. Invite your friends to be inspired by TOLI’s life-changing ministry.
> Dinner Seating: $500 per table (8 people). *NOTE: DINNER IS NEARLY SOLD OUT.
> Lunch Seating: $400 per table (8 people).
BUY TICKETS. $50 per person, available for lunch only.
BECOME A CORPORATE SPONSOR. Your business or organization can help us transform more lives by sponsoring this event.
Questions? Email Erin Eilmes.
JOIN US FOR TOLI TUESDAY.
What is life like in Ethiopia right now? How are TOLI clients faring? Join TOLI Social Worker Hailu Getachew on our next prayer Zoom, and get the latest news from our program in Addis Ababa. You'll also hear the latest prayer needs and updates from our other locations around the world, as we pray together for the entire TOLI family.
WHEN: Tuesday JULY 13, 12pm MT on Zoom
Email Liza for your Zoom link. Or join the Prayer Team here to get prayer reminders straight in your inbox.