Meet Norma
Norma has always enjoyed cutting hair and dreamed of owning her own business in Indianapolis. But when she tried to get a bank loan, it was difficult for Norma to access the capital she required to start her business.
Before joining Grameen America, Norma’s financial situation was precarious. She cut hair and sold food from home, and it was a struggle to afford rent and bills. There were even instances when she had to rely on donations to support herself and her two children.
Over the past eight years, with the support of loans from Grameen America, Norma has run a professional hair salon located at the back of her house. With her first loan, she was able to purchase the supplies she needed to grow her services.
“I am very thankful for all the loans I have been able to receive from Grameen America. It has been a blessing.“
As a business owner, Norma enjoys having balance in her life and maintaining her own schedule. Norma is committed to giving her clients the best results and often receives feedback on the quality and affordability of her services. With her most recent loan, Norma bought more stock to expand the services offered at her salon.
At her weekly Grameen America center meetings, Norma has built a strong community with the other members. The women support her by promoting Norma’s salon to others to increase her clientele.
Norma is very family oriented. With the success of her business, she can afford to take her mother and daughter to California to visit her adult son and two granddaughters. Her daughter is 15 years old and hopes to one day join her mom’s business. Norma’s mother is also a Grameen America member and currently owns and operates a bakery.
Since joining Grameen America, Norma’s timely loan repayments have been reported to the credit bureaus. Recently, Norma was looking to purchase a new house and a credit check confirmed that her credit score has significantly improved since she joined Grameen America. Norma is proud that with her hard work she has established a successful business and has become financially independent.