In many small towns, everyone knows everyone. But it wasn’t until joining Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment program that Anka, Fedya, and Donka truly connected with one another.
Before participating in the training lessons, each woman was facing her own struggles. And each knew she needed a breakthrough.
Anka needed a way to generate more income for her family; her husband’s wages were not able to cover all of her family’s needs.
Fedya needed to find confidence and peace. She was married as a teenager and wasn’t able to finish her education. Now, raising three children, the heavy responsibilities were weighing on her.
Donka needed a caring community, as well as strategies for how to save up for her future.
Through Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment lessons, hosted by a local partner in Bulgaria, these women gained practical skills, friendship, and renewed confidence.
They learned about following a savings plan, starting and maintaining a business, and recognising their inherent dignity and worth as unique individuals.
Anka started her own small business. “I sell snacks, hamburgers, iced coffee, and juice,” she shared. “I can now reinvest all the income back into the business so it will continue to grow.”
Fedya’s self-worth began to grow. Her husband attended some of the lessons with her, and they took home strategies on how to communicate with dignity as a family.
And for Donka, Women’s Empowerment introduced her to those she now sees as lifelong companions.
“It felt like we had known each other for years,” Donka said.
“We look for each other outside of the church now, too,” Fedya added.
“We are grateful there are still good people that will help each other,” said Anka.
When women are facing challenges — whether it’s with their family, career, or self-image — having someone stand beside them makes all the difference. Through Women’s Empowerment, these women learned skills they could implement for stronger futures. And with it, they engaged in true community.
As Donka shared: “We feel like sisters. We are sisters.”
