Our Shareholders

Jaqueline Mukamurenzi

You cannot miss Jaqueline Mukamurenzi’s retail store as you walk through the streets of Nyamata, because of the colorful clothing and bags lining its entrance.   As you enter she will greet you with a smile and proudly show you her merchandise, which ranges from cooking oil to umbrellas and children’s clothing.

With a thankful heart Jaqueline gives glory to God as she tells of how her life went from personal devastation to a life of success and empowerment.

After her husband abandoned her and their two children she turned to Urwego Opportunity Bank (UOB) for help.  That help came in 2007 with a loan of just under $100 to expand her store.

UOB’s staff trained Jaqueline with Holistic Life Improvement modules to help her business succeed.  She was taught the importance of customer care, supplying essential and attractive inventory, and opening a savings account.  Over the years Jaqueline has increased her loan to over $650.

Jaqueline has used the profits from her business to build a home, which in turn provides the collateral needed to receive a larger loan to expand her business.  Her business success has, also, allowed her to employ her sister.

You will hear satisfaction in Jaqueline’s voice as she speaks about being able to send her children to school, and provide adequate food and clothing for them.

By being a successful entrepreneur and taking care of her household she has, also, earned the respect of her community.

You will see humility in Jaqueline’s eyes as she tells you how she opens her arms and heart to the poor around her.

She has a passion to support UOB’s mission and has encouraged other women to join the bank.  These women are now experiencing the life changing results of financial stability.

Jaqueline continues to ask the Lord to guide and direct her in all aspects of her life.  And her hope for the future is to receive an individual loan, which will enable her to continue to build her business.

When you leave Jaqueline’s shop, with your new umbrella, her story will keep replaying in your mind.  As you walk down the street you will smile to yourself as you realize you just heard a true life experience of God’s faithfulness, and how He used microfinance to restore an abandoned woman’s family, dignity, and respect.