Summer Impact Report
Strengthening Capacity
Through partnership with Gilead Trust, a Zimbabwean entrepreneur organization, we are helping turn entrepreneurial dreams into financial realities among the 40% of the population living in poverty. Together, we train local business trainers, entrepreneurs and establish business savings groups to construct intellectual and financial structures that empower Zimbabwean entrepreneurs to succeed. This Spring we held a six-part training workshop to equip trainers with the capacity to train entrepreneurs on Business Essentials.
Six participants of the Train-the-Trainer workshop along with Tendai Kashangura (director)
"The training inspired me," says Godfrey Ticharwa, who runs a solar installation business. "Before the training, I was doing business the wrong way. Now, I have learned essential business practices such as building customer relationships, record-keeping and business mindsets. I am motivated to learn more about business given the ever-changing business environment."
Responding in Ukraine
In April several Hope leaders were able to make a trip to Ukraine to explore ways to lay the groundwork to help Ukrainian families begin rebuilding their lives through the start and growth of businesses that give back to their communities. We met with a variety of people -- public officials, religious leaders, entrepreneurs, non-profit leaders, military personnel -- to receive input on how to best respond. We're excited to share we are in the early stages of a special collaborative partnership with Hope International, a micro- finance organization. "Your generosity and support is busy paving the way to a new beginning. We're excited to see what kind of transformation can take place as we apply wisdom, care, love, and faith," shares Mark Goeser, CEO of Hope Ventures.
Creating Jobs in South LA
The 2023 Convergence program, in partnership with Tapestry LA and Crete Academy, is currently halfway through its six-month journey. Ten entrepreneurs and twelve mentors are working together to create growing businesses and thriving relationships. The entrepreneurs have been busy conducting interviews with their customer segments, to better understand their customer's needs and wants. This month's training focuses on creating solutions to customer problems and needs, focusing on the unique value they bring to their customers (UVPs), along with building a practical and profitable business model.
Whether online or in person, every time they are together the energy in the room is inspiring! They are discovering how to build businesses that are resilient, in demand, and growing. And they are doing it in partnership with one another! It's quite remarkable. Your generosity continues to provide the tools and support they need to flourish in business and life!
2023 Convergence Team
