Maharashtra-based Kusuma is a determined and hardworking entrepreneur who has made a name for herself with a thriving Xerox centre in her local community. At 33, she had been running her centre for three years. Business started slow, but as her reliable and affordable services gained a reputation, she began seeing a steady stream of customers.
“I was thrilled when people started recognizing the quality and affordability of my services,” Kusuma recalls. “It made all the initial struggles worth it.”
Despite numerous challenges, Kusuma never let her dreams of financial independence falter. In a male-dominated field, she faced many obstacles but persevered, turning her Xerox centre into a successful enterprise.
“It wasn’t easy,” she admits, “but I was determined to make it work. Seeing my customers leave satisfied gave me the motivation to keep going.” Her dedication has paid off, allowing her to support her family and positively impact her community.
Facing Roadblocks
Despite decent earnings, Kusuma dreamed of expanding her business to increase her income. She needed new equipment and additional staff but struggled to arrange capital. “I wanted to offer more services to my customers, but without the right equipment, it was impossible,” she explains. She envisioned her centre as a one-stop solution for all photocopying, printing, and scanning needs.
Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
Kusuma then discovered Mahila Money, a financial institution providing capital to women entrepreneurs. Initially sceptical, she decided to apply for INR 10,000 as she had never taken a loan. “I was nervous about taking a loan,” Kusuma says, “but I knew it was the only way to achieve my goals.”
To her surprise, Mahila Money approved her loan within a week, and she quickly invested in a coloured Xerox machine, broadening her range of services. This investment paid off immediately, boosting her income by INR 3,000 in the first month.
“The new machine brought in so many more customers. It was a game-changer for my business.”
Becoming the Xerox Empress
The loan from Mahila Money enabled Kusuma to grow her business and gain financial independence. She now contributes significantly to the household income and no longer relies on her husband’s support. This achievement gave her a sense of pride and motivated her to work even harder. Balancing work and family, Kusuma manages everything single-handedly. “It feels amazing to contribute more to our household,” she shares.
Her husband, who owns a travel agency, handles significant household expenses, while Kusuma handles the day-to-day operations. With the new equipment and increased customer base, Kusuma started earning a stable income, and her profits increased by almost 40%.
“The financial stability has been incredible,” she says. “I feel more secure and confident in my business and ability to provide for my family.”
A Picture-Perfect #JiyoApneDumPe Story
Kusuma is grateful to Mahila Money for the opportunity to expand her business and achieve financial independence. With newfound financial freedom, she plans to introduce a mobile recharge service at her shop, anticipating attracting more customers and increasing her income.
“I’m excited about adding new services,” she says. “I know it will bring in even more business.”
Kusuma inspires the women in her area. Having overcome numerous challenges to achieve success, she serves as a role model for other aspiring female entrepreneurs and is committed to using her success to inspire others. “If I can do it, so can they,” Kusuma asserts. While she has more goals to achieve, Kusuma is determined to keep progressing and is grateful to Mahila Money for their support.
Kusuma’s story is a testament to hard work, determination, and the importance of support, inspiring many to follow in her footsteps.
“I’m grateful daily for the opportunity to grow my business,” she says. “I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited about the future.”
If you are a woman entrepreneur who wants to take your business to new heights and is in need of working capital and entrepreneurship resources, come speak to us on Mahila Money. For more such #JiyoApneDumPe live conversations, download the Mahila Money App on Play Store or visit us on www.mahila.money
