Meet Gigi

Gigi runs a driving school in Queens, New York. She found out about Grameen America when a friend invited her to attend a center meeting. At first, she couldn’t believe there was an organization giving loans to women business owners.

“I saw the discipline required to become a member and how Grameen America helped each woman reach their business goals,” said Gigi .

Gigi believes the program’s structure keeps her on track. She has also benefited from being involved in a community organization and she has seen interest in her services grow from word of mouth recommendations.

Over four years, Gigi worked as an instructor at a driving school and had dreams of starting her own business. When she got in an accident, the shock and her subsequent recovery encouraged Gigi to follow her passion, so she took steps to start her own driving school.

Gigi started her business in 2017 and today has served over 500 driving students. Although a new recruit to Grameen America and on her first loan, Gigi employs a secretary and five driving instructors.

Before joining Grameen America, Gigi needed additional funds to grow her business. When she tried to access a loan through traditional avenues, she was shocked by the interest rates offered.

Gigi offers mandatory driving class for people looking to get their driver’s license, as well as defensive driving classes. She recently confirmed a contract with a high school in Queens as part of their driver’s education program. Networking to build contracts with schools is an important part of her business as she works to ensure those new to the road are equipped with the skills to become safe drivers.  

Gigi is a mother of three adult children but does not have any family living in the United States. Her two children in the Philippines work as a lawyer and a doctor, respectively and her youngest lives in Canada and is an immigration consultant.

As a Grameen America member, Gigi has seen her credit score steadily increase. Gigi has actively brought other women entrepreneurs into the program—she is passionate about supporting aspiring businesswomen.

For the future, Gigi’s goal is to continue to build her business, so she can assist her family in the Philippines to pay for their education.