Manmak Joseph embarked on her journey with Solar Sister as an entrepreneur in 2018, and after several years, she became a Solar Sister Business Development Associate.
Her work primarily takes place in the rural areas of Plateau State, located in north-central Nigeria. In these communities, many women are responsible for maintaining their households while their husbands attend to the farm. The concept of entrepreneurship and owning their own businesses is new and unfamiliar territory for these women.
Manmak explains that the biggest challenge is helping these women understand the value of joining Solar Sister. It means teaching them something entirely new, she says.
Manmak tirelessly engages with the women to overcome this challenge, emphasizing the importance of clean and affordable energy in their community and highlighting their vital role in bringing about this change.
“Bringing them on board as entrepreneurs have really given them a platform to go out, meet people, interact, and then from selling the lamps, they get something to support themselves and their families and thereby affecting the community. It reduces their costs and makes their lives easier, so the impact is great.”
One of Manmak’s most remarkable achievements thus far has been working with a young woman named Joy Lakan, who is deaf. Initially uncertain how their communication would work, Manmak and Joy developed a unique way of communicating with each other while collaborating. Joy expressed her enthusiasm to become a Solar Sister Entrepreneur, fully embracing the training and venturing out to meet people and sell lamps.
“I meet people, and though I have some little challenges, I sell lamps and keep my business moving. I don’t have to beg anyone for anything because I am moving around and meeting people, and I get money to take care of myself. It is a great experience for me. I enjoy my business in Solar Sister,” Joy explains.
Manmak initially faced challenges working with Joy, but they persevered. Now Joy actively participates in the monthly Sisterhood meetings. After the general Sisterhood gathering, Manmak dedicates time to summarize the model with Joy and review the key points.
“I believe there is ability in her disability. She is putting in a lot of effort. You can see the zeal. You can see the passion that she carries when she goes about her business. I hope this will open more doors to people like her.”
To learn more about Manmak and Joy in their own words watch the video below.