How STEP took me out of poverty - Airenogbuan ~ Truth Reporters

 

By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh

Augustina Airenogbuan hails from Oshimili North Local Government Area. She was one of the pioneer persons with disabilities (PWDs) who benefitted from the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) in the 2016/2017 cycle.

She was trained and established in Hairdressing, Braiding and Makeover. She is the CEO of Augustina Hairdressing and Makeover. In spite of her physical disability, Augustina is living life to the fullest as a wife, an entrepreneur, a trainer and a Paralympian. She is five years in business. Hear her.

“Before now, I was doing nothing, but now I make my own money. I no longer beg and I no longer go to bed hungry. Governor Okowa gave me hope. In addition to my hairdressing business, I am building a career in Paralympics. I play table tennis; I have been part of the state government’s contingent in different tournaments.

“I have trained four persons; I have three trainees and one employee. I have achieved a lot. I got married after the programme. I bought myself a brand-new wheelchair, more equipment for my business and a plot of land. I also support my family from the proceeds.

“I have renovated my shop. I have diversified into sales of hair beauty products to meet customers’ demands. STEP took me out of poverty. I am now self-reliant and fulfilled.”