Case Study: Bibi Morium Akhter (Joyful)
Location: Charfasion, Bhola, Bangladesh
Sector: Microenterprise – Brick Production
Support Received: BDT 120,000 (approx. $1,100) in phased grants
Background
Bibi Morium Akhter—affectionately known as Joyful—lives in the remote region of Charfasion, Bhola. A widow, she cares full-time for her disabled son while supporting her school-going daughter. Her third child, a daughter, is married. Despite also managing chronic asthma, Joyful’s strength, optimism, and entrepreneurial spirit have made her a pillar of resilience in her community.
To sustain her household, Joyful collects and sells garbage, earning approximately BDT 5,000 (roughly $50) per month. This modest income, supplemented occasionally by her neighbors’ support, has been her family’s sole lifeline since her husband passed away in a climate disaster.
The Entrepreneurial Spark
When we met Joyful, she shared her aspirations to create a more stable and sustainable livelihood. With encouragement and guidance, she developed a simple but promising business plan centered around brick production—a seasonal but high-demand trade in her region.
After a careful review of her plan and a series of mentoring sessions, Joyful received our first-ever grant of BDT 50,000 (~$450) to launch her microenterprise. She chose to invest during the off-season when prices for inputs are lower, anticipating stronger returns as the dry season—and peak demand—approached.
Progress & Impact
Joyful’s early moves as an entrepreneur demonstrated strategic thinking and tenacity. Her decision to invest ahead of the peak season is already showing promise, as demand for bricks rises with the arrival of drier months.
Impressed by her dedication and savvy, we have since provided her with a second grant of BDT 70,000 (~$640) to scale up the same business. This continued support is designed to reinforce her growing enterprise and help her transition from subsistence to sustainable income generation.
Looking Ahead
Joyful represents the kind of community-driven entrepreneurship we aim to foster—where resilience, planning, and a small push can ignite long-term change. As our first grant recipient, she holds a special place in our journey. We remain deeply committed to walking alongside her as she builds a better future for herself and her family.
