Win Myint Htay – Merchant in Myanmar
My business has improved our living conditions and enabled me to enroll my autistic son in a specialized center. I also support my family and help my brothers and sisters continue their education. As a member of a group for mothers of autistic children, I contribute to the education of disadvantaged children. Despite the challenges, I want to expand my textile business and invest in clothing imports. Thanks to SOO, I have learned how to manage my business and am proud of my independence.
My name is Win Myint Htay, I am 38 years old and I am an entrepreneur in Seikkyi Township, Yangon. Originally from MyaungMya, in the AyarWaddy region, I moved here in 2012 after getting married. We live with my husband and our two children, the eldest of whom attends a special school for children with autism.
Working to get by
I grew up in a family of 12 children and had to leave school in sixth grade. At the age of 14, I left my village to work in a Japanese textile factory in Yangon. The working conditions were strict, but my salary allowed me to help my brothers and sisters continue their education. When I arrived in Seikkyi Township, I noticed the lack of local shops. To support my family, I opened a grocery store in 2012 with only 60,000 MMK (US$35), supplemented by my husband’s salary.
Growing my business despite the challenges
Over time, I diversified my business by adding sewing, clothing sales, and an online service. In 2016, thanks to loans from SOO, I was able to invest in equipment, buy a refrigerator, and expand my textile business. In 2023, I even bought a house. Today, my income has increased from 400,000 to 1,000,000 MMK (from €182 to €453) per month, ensuring our financial stability. My husband earns a good living, but thanks to my business, we have additional security.
I have high ambitions for the future.
My business has improved our living conditions and enabled me to enroll my autistic son in a specialized center. I also support my family and help my brothers and sisters continue their education. As a member of a group for mothers of autistic children, I contribute to the education of disadvantaged children. Despite the challenges, I want to expand my textile business and invest in clothing imports. Thanks to SOO, I have learned how to manage my business and am proud of my independence.
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