In the sprawling Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, where tales of struggle and resilience intertwine, one story stands out - the story of Amito Concy. A mother, a survivor, and now, an entrepreneur breaking barriers.
Amito's journey began with adversity. At just 18, she found herself pregnant, abandoned by her partner, and forced to drop out of school. Life threw her into the deep end, but she refused to drown. With sheer determination and a glimmer of hope, she embraced the opportunity presented by Bridging Gaps and Afri-Youth Network.
With the support of YY Ventures and Yunus France, Amito received a microloan that became the stepping stone to her transformation. In December 2023, she opened a small retail shop in Village 8 of the settlement, offering a variety of edible goods to the community.
"When life knocks you down, you have two choices: stay down or rise up stronger," says Amito Concy, reflecting on her journey. "I chose to rise. My child depended on me, and I couldn't let adversity define our future."
In February, Amito made a pivotal decision - she returned to school. It was a choice fueled by a desire for knowledge, a thirst for empowerment, and a commitment to shaping a better tomorrow for her family. "Education is the key to unlocking opportunities," she affirms. "I refuse to let my circumstances dictate my future. I'm determined to break free from the cycle of poverty and build a brighter tomorrow." As she stands in her humble shop, surrounded by the chatter of customers and the aroma of freshly stocked goods, Amito's eyes sparkle with hope.
In the midst of uncertainty and adversity, Amito Concy's story stands as a powerful reminder - that with courage, resilience, and unwavering determination, even the darkest of nights can give way to the dawn of a new day.