"In the beginning, I was pessimistic about the outcomes of this initiative. I felt that I would not be able to save money or manage an income-generating activity," said Marie Rose.

However, she says, "I learned quickly and now have made more than 300 cookstoves for my clients. With the profits, I have rebuilt my house, sent my kids to school, and I am able to buy food for the family. Most of all, I am now very much respected in society and have been elected to represent women in the community decision-making body."

Now, Marie Rose is also helping her community by employing her neightbors to work on her land and to help her make stoves. She is not just a role model, but a bearer of hope. One of her neighbors said, " I am proud of my colleague and I am learning from her. I believe I can also come out of poverty if I get a chance to be trained and start doing business as Rose has done."