From Adversity to Opportunity: Margaret’s Journey of Confidence and Independence

For much of her early life, Margaret believed the future held little promise for her. Living with a disability and losing both parents at a young age, she faced overwhelming challenges that left her feeling uncertain about her place in the world.

Without parental support, Margaret was unable to continue her education and had to abandon her dreams of completing school. Life became increasingly difficult, and she often wondered how she would survive without the guidance and care of her parents.

Everything began to change in 2021 when she joined the FGN/IFAD-supported Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP).

Through the programme, a group of 25 persons with disabilities was formed in Margaret’s community to engage in cassava farming. For the first time, she found herself part of a supportive network of people who shared similar experiences and ambitions. With the programme’s support, members of the group gained access to farmland and essential farming inputs needed to begin cassava cultivation.

Margaret rented 1.5 hectares of land and received fertilizer, pesticides, and 50 bundles of certified cassava stems—about 15,000 stems—to establish her farm. With determination and the support of the programme, she began her journey as a cassava farmer.

Her first harvest marked a turning point. Margaret reinvested the income from her farm into purchasing inputs and hiring labour for the next farming season, gradually building her confidence and independence.

But perhaps her greatest achievement was returning to school.

Margaret supervises harvesting of cassava tubers in her farm. 

With the income she earned from cassava farming, Margaret re-enrolled in school and is now studying Mass Communication. She is also gaining practical experience as an intern and radio talk show host—something she once thought was impossible.

Beyond farming and school, Margaret continues to pursue other talents. She is a skilled hairdresser and baker, earning additional income by plaiting hair and baking shortbread to support her growing ambitions.

Today, Margaret uses her story to encourage others living with disabilities to believe in their potential.

“People living with disability should not limit themselves from doing anything they want to do in life,” she says. “They should be confident and believe that life can become better. Keep an open mind and accept help from those who want to help.”

With gratitude, she reflects on how far she has come.

“IFAD and VCDP have put a smile on my face. They supported me to become who I wanted to be in life.”

Margaret’s journey is a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets determination, even the most difficult beginnings can lead to a future filled with hope, dignity, and possibility.