You Have Become Part of Agustina’s Journey

From another corner of Nias Island comes the story of an eldest daughter who chose to put aside her dream of attending college so she could help her mother meet the needs of her younger siblings.

Her name is Agustina Lase, a 20-year-old from Hilifaosi Village whose life you have helped support through us. Since her father passed away in 2022, life has changed significantly for Agustina’s family. Her mother had to leave home to find work, while Agustina, the oldest of six children, took on the responsibility of caring for and helping provide for four younger siblings who live with her.

Agustina has been doing what she can to support her family by making use of whatever produce can still be harvested from the garden her parents left behind. However, income from the garden is unpredictable.

Obor Berkat Indonesia first came to know Agustina’s family through one of her younger sisters, Fistirani Lase, who joined the School of Life learning center. Through home visits and ongoing interaction with the family, the OBI team became aware of the challenges they were facing.

Through this mentoring process, Agustina received an opportunity to start a small grocery shop. Business capital was provided in the form of various goods to sell, including rice, eggs, cooking oil, sugar, household essentials, and snacks.

Agustina also received guidance in basic bookkeeping, inventory management, setting selling prices, and calculating the shop’s operating costs.

Little by little, her business began to grow. Some products sold out and had to be restocked quickly. Today, Agustina has also begun selling prepaid electricity tokens and mobile phone credit as additional sources of income.

Agustina still has a long journey ahead of her. However, this small shop has given her a new opportunity to build a more stable income while continuing to help meet her family’s needs.

Your support through OBI has helped Agustina care for and provide for her four younger siblings. Together, let us continue creating opportunities for more families in need.