South Africa: Maria Moropane

Maria Ester Moropane, a startup entrepreneur from Maruleng Local Municipality, whose participation in Gender Links’ Sunrise Campaign strengthened her independence, resilience, and ability to support her children through entrepreneurship. Through life skills and mentorship, Maria learned to rely on herself, view business as a solution to stress, and prioritizes safety and financial responsibility, leading to improved family stability, dignity, and community respect. She runs a small trading business selling fat cakes, assorted snacks, biscuits, and sewing products, and has managed to grow sales despite competition from other hawkers and fluctuating demand by focusing on product quality, careful stock control, and diversifying her income streams. With improved record‑keeping, participation in a savings group, increased household income, and visible improvements to her home, Maria has laid a strong foundation for sustainability and plans to expand into grocery sales, sewing services, and cold‑drink retail while gradually creating employment and strengthening her business operation.