When Mercy joined a Five Talents program in Terekeka, South Sudan, she was facing a difficult reality. As a mother of four, she wanted to provide for her family, but she was illiterate and lacked the financial resources and opportunities to start a business.

In her community, Mercy was far from alone in facing these challenges. When Five Talents first surveyed Terekeka participants in 2024, only 21% could read simple text in their mother tongue. Just one year later, 82% reported being able to read — a nearly fourfold increase that is opening doors to education, business, and greater independence. Mercy is one of those lives transformed.

Her journey began with literacy classes, giving Mercy the opportunity to learn to read and write in her mother tongue. She then participated in Five Talents' business training, where she learned how to plan for growth, keep business records, and understand whether her business was making a profit.

"The most helpful training was planning for my business," she shared.

Through her Savings Group, Mercy developed the habit of saving regularly, giving her the confidence and capital to invest in her future. She purchased the tables and equipment she needed to start a small business selling food, something she says was impossible before because she simply didn't have the money.

Mercy's experience reflects what is happening across her community. By 2025, 69% of participants in Terekeka had started a new income-generating activity, while 60% expanded an existing one. As businesses grew, 74% of members reported an increase in household income after just one year of the program.

Today, Mercy's business is thriving.

Not only is she able to provide food for her own family, but her business also serves others in her community. As it has grown, she has even been able to hire two staff members to help with the work, creating new opportunities beyond her own household.

The changes extend far beyond her business. Mercy says she is now able to save for future needs, participate more fully in church, and better provide for her children.

Looking ahead, she dreams of expanding her business even further.

"My hope is to expand my business and have more products to sell," she says.

When asked what she would like to tell the people who support Five Talents, her answer was simple and heartfelt:

‍"My thanks go to the people who support this program and make it possible for us here."

Mercy's story is a reminder that lasting transformation begins with opportunity. Literacy opens the door to learning, Savings Groups provide the confidence and capital to invest, and business training equips entrepreneurs to succeed. Together, these tools help women like Mercy build thriving businesses, strengthen their families, and create lasting hope in their communities.

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^{To protect her privacy, we have changed the participant's name.}