At Ayosifam Integrated Service Limited, known to many as AyosifamHub, we often hear discussions about business strategies, profit margins, and market expansion. While all these are vital, there’s a deeper, more profound reason why our doors remain open and our operations thrive: the incredible impact we’re privileged to make in the lives of the older women who form the backbone of our cassava processing efforts.
You might think an Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) like ours would prioritize highly educated or formally qualified staff, especially in today’s competitive landscape. And yes, while those are valuable assets, we’ve found immense strength and loyalty in a demographic often overlooked: older women who are simply looking for a way to survive, to put food on their tables, and to make it through another day.
Many of these women, who diligently work as cassava peelers, are widows, some are illiterate, and all are driven by a powerful need to provide for themselves and their families. They may not have formal degrees, but what they bring to AyosifamHub is invaluable: unwavering dedication, a strong work ethic, and a loyalty that stems from genuine appreciation.
We’ve seen firsthand the eagerness in their eyes as they anticipate the arrival of the next cassava delivery. They arrive at the factory well before 8 AM, ready to work, with a spirit that often inspires our entire team. Their prayers and their tireless labour are, without a doubt, a significant factor in our continued operation. It’s not just about the profit for us; it’s about the tangible difference our modest payments make in their lives.
In these times of high inflation, we understand the struggles they face. That’s why, beyond their wages, we also cover their transportation costs. This isn’t just an expense for us; it’s an investment in their well-being, a way to ensure their earnings can truly help them cope with the rising cost of living.
For any MSME looking to build a resilient and dedicated team, we wholeheartedly encourage you to look beyond conventional hiring practices. You might be surprised to find that among older women willing to work, you’ll discover some of your most loyal and committed employees. Their experience, their resilience, and their sheer determination to provide for themselves can be an incredible asset to any business.
At AyosifamHub, these women aren’t just employees; they are integral members of our family, our unsung heroes whose hard work and enduring spirit remind us daily of the true meaning of impact.
