Business Ownership Gives Confidence to Women in Yei

(YEI TOWN, YEI RIVER COUNTY) – A woman entrepreneur in Yei town, Central Equatoria State, has called on mothers to seek financial independence through small businesses as a way to support their families and improve their lives.

Joice Ever, a local trader and single mother, told Access Radio that running her own business has helped her become self reliant after years of working for others. She currently earns her living by selling ties in Yei town.

Ever said she spent more than two years employed by different people, a period she described as financially difficult and limiting. “Working for others made it nearly impossible for me to budget or plan for the future,” she said.

She explained that the move to self employment allowed her to take control of her income and expenses. According to Ever, the change has enabled her to meet daily household needs and keep her child in school.

Despite the challenges of raising a child alone, Ever said owning a business has given her stability and confidence. “Being my own boss has given me comfort and a sense of security that I did not have before,” she said.

Beyond her personal experience, Ever urged society to change its attitude towards women who work in public spaces. She challenged men to stop holding negative views about women engaged in business.

“Women are not in the streets looking for men. They are there to work,” she said. “I am calling on women to keep pushing and to become independent.”

Ever acknowledged that business in Yei can sometimes be slow, especially during periods of low spending. However, she said consistent effort and community support help women traders survive.

She appealed to residents of Yei to support local women led businesses, noting that small purchases can make a big difference. “Every time you buy from a woman, you are helping a mother put food on the table and support her child’s education,” she said.

Her message to other women in Yei River County was direct and encouraging. She urged them not to wait for opportunities from others but to start small businesses of their own and grow step by step.

Joice Ever’s Business Journey