Success Stories: Rima and Wa’el

She is the sole breadwinner and has an elementary school education. Rima's family includes a disabled father and a sister battling cancer, making her financial responsibilities even more challenging. Despite these challenges, Rima has successfully started a business selling tomato molasses, pickles, jams, and dried peppers and herbs. Rima's business faced several obstacles, including limited access to financial resources and training opportunities. She struggled to produce and store her products efficiently, often underproducing to avoid waste. Additionally, she lacked marketing strategies and knowledge on how to generate a reliable customer base, particularly during the winter months. Rima's business suffered from the lack of a dedicated place to display and sell products, as she worked from her tent. Rima learned about the Near East Foundation's program and sought support from the Siraj Center. Through the program, she gained access to training on improving the quality of her processing, safer food storage and preservation, marketing, and customer relations. Rima also joined a cooperative of women processors, which provided her with a support network and advice on how to implement new manufacturing tools and preservatives. As a result of the program, Rima has seen a significant improvement in her production and income. She is now able to produce larger quantities of her products and has increased her income. Rima's goal is to expand her production and expand her business by investing in additional manufacturing tools and renting a shop in the city. She also hopes to purchase a house for her family, allowing them to settle in their new community. Rima's business has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with income reduced due to the closure of businesses and lockdowns. However, she remains optimistic and is seeking support to adapt to the changing circumstances. With the support of the Near East Foundation, Rima has been able to improve her business and improve her family's economic situation.