Esperance and Valens’ Story
Esperance and Valens joined the Kula Fellowship as coffee farmers with big dreams but limited resources. The couple didn't just want to improve their coffee farm, they wanted an opportunity to build a business. When reflecting on the various businesses operating in their village, they noticed something: there were many people with tailoring businesses, but no one was selling tailoring materials. Through the Fellowship trainings, they learned to turn that observation into action, professionalizing their ideas and developing a business plan.
With the seed capital received through the program, Esperance and Valens opened a shop selling fabric, thread, buttons, and other tailoring supplies in the middle of their village. They invested in an advanced button maker and watched their business grow. But what truly set them apart was their commitment to excellence, even seeking out additional customer service training. Now, people travel from neighboring communities just to shop at their store.
The results speak for themselves: their household income has grown 900% since entering the program. This transformation means their children's school fees are covered and basic needs are met. But it's also opened doors to new opportunities. They've started a pig-rearing business and expanded their coffee farm, now hiring fellow community members as day workers during harvest.
Esperance and Valens aren't done dreaming. They're aiming to grow their business by 30% in the coming years, with their eyes set on an even bigger vision: sending all three children to university and building a new home for their family.
