Business: Interior designer
Region: Le Kef
When Safia decided in 2000 to apply for a micro-credit, she was not exactly sure what she wanted to do with it. The opening up by the National Handicrafts Office of a handicrafts village in the northwestern town of Kef was an opportunity for her to rent a boutique and launch her project. All she knew was that this was a chance to improve the quality of her life.  She felt that having her own boutique outside of her home would make her a fulfilled and motivated woman: "I take pleasure in getting up early in the morning, full of new ideas to try in my workshop."

Since the creation of her project, Safia has invested considerably in training to increase her knowledge and to explore new markets such as interior design and weaving, while meeting recognised international quality standards. Her creations are inspired by her surroundings: nature, tattoos etc. As she explains, "These loans have helped me lead a more stable life and to think about my future. Attending training courses and participating in trade fairs and exhibitions have helped me earn money and have provided me with the knowledge and confidence needed to manage my project without anxiety or stress." In total, she has taken out 4 loans amounting to 10,000 TND.

Her project has been so successful that banks have lent her money to buy her house. She is reimbursing the loan thanks to her micro-enterprise.