Toyoba Begum, a 30-year-old woman from Rahmater Bill, Ward-3 of Palongkhali Union in Ukhiya Upazila, was born into poverty. Her husband, Shahjahan, works as a day laborer, and together they struggled to provide for their two children—a son and a daughter. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened their hardships, as Shahjahan’s work opportunities became scarce and their already limited income could no longer cover basic needs. Each day was a fight for survival.
Change began when Toyoba heard about the project “Engaging Host Community People into Income-Generating Activities (IGA)”—Phase implemented by PROTTYASHI. Inspired by stories of others who had benefitted, she joined a local group center in July 2020. There, she actively participated in meetings, trainings, and group activities, determined to build a better future for her family.
Toyoba soon enrolled in a wooden craft training program, where she learned to make spoons and other household items. With dedication and persistence, she quickly developed her skills. Trainers and facilitators guided her through the process, supporting her to connect with national-level retailers and market actors. This opened up new market linkages and helped her identify product demands. For the first time, Toyoba was able to take direct orders and sell her products independently.
Today, Toyoba’s household income has grown substantially. Her family now enjoys greater stability—they can afford nutritious food, and her children attend school regularly. What was once a life defined by uncertainty has transformed into one of hope and possibility. Even more inspiring, her children have shown interest in learning the craft, eager to continue the family business in the future.
Grateful for the support, Toyoba reflected: “We thank PROTTYASHI for their support, especially the incentives during the pandemic and the gas cylinder. Without PROTTYASHI, we would have faced countless difficulties.”
Toyoba’s journey highlights how resilience, hard work, and the right opportunities can transform lives. From the struggles of poverty to building a sustainable livelihood, she stands as a shining example of empowerment for her family and her community.
