An Entrepreneurship Journey of Pratibha

In a male dominant society, it’s often difficult for a woman to break the stereotype and attempt to run a business. And, Kanchanpur is no different. PratibhaThapa, a young woman from Krishnapur Municipality, Sudur Paschim Province, is an elder daughter in her family of six. Born in an economically vulnerable family, pratibha’s family relied on their yields from a 700 sq land and daily wage.  
Poverty hit her family hard. She opted out from 12th standard and moved to Kathmandu in search of employment opportunity. However, her dream was shattered when she agreed for a job at NPR 9,000/month. Therefore, she worked in a garment factory, dog care house and small shops for more than two years to fulfill her responsibility of being the eldest daughter. All through these adversities, Pratibha completed her bachelor and decided to return her home town with no idea of future. 
In the meantime, Shree Krishna high School had announced a notice of training on vegetable and poultry production in partnership with Skill Up! Project. Pratibha heard about it and visited school administration for further information. She chose poultry training owing to a bit knowledge she acquired while her family kept poultry. Fortunately, got selected and trained for 60 days in poultry production training.  She received training on requirement of improved shed, the disease control and diagnosis aspects, the types and suitable variety of poultry, hygiene and sanitation aspects, vaccination, curative management of sick chicks, business plan development and marketing aspects though theoretical and practical session. She also improved her coordination and communication skills.

She started her enterprise with 2,500 chicks (Broiler- cup 500) for the first time in improved shed.  She was shattered when 200 chicks died from diarrhea. Nonetheless, with the help from a doctor and trainer she raised the remaining chicks and sold them approximately at NPR 8, 000,00. It was not easy for me being a woman to start a poultry business. However, with the support from family and guidance from Skill Up project, I developed enough confidence and motivation” said Praibha. Skill Up project helped me to develop my self-esteem, capacity and Skills to be an entrepreneur.