SARAH SOLOMON – UWEZO PROGRAM ALUMNI 2019
My name is Sara Solomon, and I’m a third-year Bachelor in business administration student at the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy. I’m also an entrepreneur with a passion for baking, specializing in cakes, breads, and snacks.
During my secondary school years, I participated in the UWEZO AWARD projects in 2018 and 2019, where our Community Change Projects won trophies both years. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from this experience was the importance of persistence. It instilled in me the confidence to pursue self-employment.
After completing my O-levels, I was driven by a desire to start my own business, so I began learning how to bake cakes. I launched my baking business using equipment borrowed from a friend. I vividly remember how we determined pricing for our products during the UWEZO AWARD project, and I applied the same strategy in my business. I ensured that I made a profit margin on every item I sold to keep my operations sustainable.
Today, I’ve developed my business to the point where I earn around 200,000–250,000 TZS (about 80–100 USD) per month. I’ve managed to accumulate profits, which I’ve reinvested in my business by purchasing essential equipment, starting with a small oven. Although my business is still growing, I’m grateful for the support from GREAT HOPE FOUNDATION, which helped me trust in my abilities and kickstart my passion.
Looking ahead, I aspire to achieve even greater things and expand my business to create employment opportunities for others. I also enjoy volunteering at GREAT HOPE FOUNDATION, as I admire how the UWEZO PROGRAM is transforming young people’s minds.