Hello friends, I am Dr. Charles Apoki. Today, I want to share a recent experience that highlights how we can be good neighbors, especially in these challenging times. It’s a story of giving, responsibility, and practical empowerment.
Empowering Others Through Micro-Capital
At Petra Christian Academy in Ughelli, I recently gave out small startup capital to petty traders, members of my church, neighbors, and workers. This initiative is part of our efforts to provide economic leverage to those around us.
A few months ago, one of my viewers sent me ₦500,000 to support this vision. Inspired by his generosity, I added another ₦500,000 to make it ₦1,000,000. Rather than giving out the money during the festive season, I chose to distribute it afterward to avoid the distractions of the holidays.
When the beneficiaries arrived, they had no idea what was about to happen. I taught them how to grow small capital into sustainable income. Some of these individuals include:
- A land seller who had no wife or children. I made it my responsibility to support him.
- An elderly woman who sold land to me and used the proceeds to build her own house.
- A teacher who had an accident and is paralyzed.
- A widow who lost her husband and now struggles to educate her children.
- A sweeper who has been diligent and hardworking over the years.
All these individuals received startup capital, and their joy was evident—they danced and prayed for me and my partner, who made this possible.
The Power of Small Businesses
Through our program, Hawas Economic Leverage Program in partnership with Salimo Wits Foundation, we’ve observed how small micro-capital investments can transform lives. Women who receive ₦2,000 or ₦3,000 daily from their small businesses can meet their basic needs without begging. This not only improves their health and independence but also reduces domestic violence.
Practical Minimalism and Delayed Gratification
I emphasized the importance of using money wisely. For instance, in my own household:
- We still sell plantain chips.
- My wife and I use coconuts from our trees to make and sell coconut candy.
- We cook and sell rice in school, recycling profits to buy more bags of rice.
These small sums, when managed well, add up over time. Practicing delayed gratification and minimalism is key to sustainable growth.
A Call to Pastors and Leaders
As pastors and leaders, we must not only ask for offerings but also extend our hands to give back to our communities. Let’s empower people to produce and improve their lives. Giving is more impactful when it’s directed toward creating tangible results in people’s lives.
Let your hands be an extension of God’s hand. Empower others to start small and grow steadily. Together, we can make a difference.
God bless you,
Dr. Charles Apoki
