Rujina Begum, from Nayapara village in Puthia Upazila of Rajshahi, exemplifies how targeted support for women can drive inclusive rural transformation. As a member of Krishnachura Nari Unnayan Dol under Nayapara Women Cooperative Limited, she has become a trusted community-based agro-service provider. Previously, she relied on a manual grain-crushing machine to process rice and wheat, a labor-intensive and time-consuming task that limited her income to around BDT 15,000 per month. Despite these challenges, Rujina remained determined to improve her situation and build a secure future.
Her turning point came through `BD Beef and Goat Value Chain Signature Program’ implemented by WAVE Foundation. Through this initiative, Rujina received comprehensive training in Heifer’s Cornerstones, climate-smart livestock management, business orientation, business planning and machinery operation. These capacity-building efforts equipped her not only with technical skills but also with the confidence to think and act as an entrepreneur.
With this support, Rujina invested in a modern motorized rice and wheat crushing machine valued at BDT 50,000. The financing model reflected both opportunity and ownership: 60% project support, 40% self-investment along with a 10% contribution (BDT 5,000) to her cooperative. Within eight months, Rujina successfully recovered her investment.
The new technology reduced her workload to one-third of the previous level while significantly increasing efficiency. She now serves 5-8 clients daily, reaching approximately 150-200 households and her monthly income has increased to BDT 25,000-30,000. Beyond financial income, Rujina has gained decision-making power within her household and greater social recognition in her community. She is now regarded as a role model for other rural women aspiring to become entrepreneurs. Looking ahead, she plans to establish a small agro-processing center at her home, expanding affordable services for local farmers and creating employment.
WAVE Foundation didn’t just provide training and support, they helped me believe in my own potential and showed me how to build a better future,” Rujina explains, with a sense of accomplishment.
