Empowering Women Through Entrepreneurship: The Success Story of Lae Lae Startup Journey

Ma Lae Lae, a 33-year-old resident of Yangon, embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship with a vision to support her family financially while nurturing her desire to create a local brand in the clothing industry. Facing numerous challenges initially, she found her path to success through tenacity and the guidance of ONOW, a program dedicated to supporting startup business owners.

After getting married and having children, Ma Lae Lae aimed to establish a home-based business to contribute to her family's income and secure her children's education. However, she encountered difficulties in balancing her roles as a housewife and a budding entrepreneur, leading to stress and doubts about her capabilities.

At that time, she had seen ONOW's Facebook awareness posts. Curious about the program's offerings for startup business owners, she reached out for more information. Recognizing the potential benefits, she eagerly enrolled in the ONOW program to gain essential knowledge and skills required for her startup business.

During her participation in the ONOW program, Ma Lae Lae diligently learned about crucial aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, market research, financial management, and time management. Implementing these newfound skills, she initiated financial record-keeping in both her personal and business affairs, laying a solid foundation for her entrepreneurial endeavors.

During the program, she was accessing mental health services through ONOW's referral program. Equipped with strategies to manage stress effectively, she gained a positive mindset and found a supportive environment to address her challenges openly. 

In February 2024, Ma Lae Lae launched her business. Leveraging her newfound knowledge and experiences gained from the ONOW program, she navigated the market with determination and resilience, securing orders from prominent business partners in the industry.

Driven by her long-term vision, Ma Lae Lae set her sights on establishing a local brand in the clothing industry. With plans to design textiles and create unique products, she aspires to not only achieve business success but also to empower women by providing job opportunities and fostering confidence among housewives in the workplace.

Ma Lae Lae's journey from a housewife with a dream to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the transformative power of determination, education, and support. Through the guidance of ONOW and her unwavering commitment, she has not only improved her family's financial stability but also emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women seeking to carve their path in the business world. As she continues to pursue her vision of building a local brand and empowering women, Ma Lae Lae's story serves as a shining example of entrepreneurial success against all odds.

"Support from organizations like ONOW is essential for STARTUP business owners, providing crucial guidance and resources for success. Additionally, onward social support is invaluable for personal development and wellbeing, ensuring entrepreneurs thrive both professionally and personally."

- Ma Lae Lae