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At Emmaus Family Center, we believe in the power of community and shared learning. This philosophy is at the heart of Her Journey, our program designed to celebrate, educate, and empower women from all walks of life. Recently, as part of our commitment to education, we took nine women on a study tour—an experience that proved to be both enlightening and transformative.
Our goal was simple yet profound: to learn how to start a savings group and identify sustainable income-generating activities. We visited a group of women who have successfully built their livelihoods through crocheting and knitting. What we discovered went beyond technical skills—it was a masterclass in financial literacy, integrity, and resilience. To our delight, the women we met not only shared their expertise but also volunteered to visit us and continue empowering our community.
Here are four key lessons we took away from this powerful experience:
1. The Power of Saving: Small Steps, Big Impact
Do not save what is left after spending but spend what is left after saving.
Warren Buffett
One of the most important lessons we learned was the significance of structured saving. Many of the women in our study tour had never been part of a savings group before. Seeing firsthand how small, consistent contributions could grow into substantial financial security was eye-opening.
The women we visited emphasized that saving isn’t just about putting money aside—it’s about trust, discipline, and commitment. When women come together to save, they create a safety net that provides both financial support and emotional encouragement.
2. Integrity and Trust are, the Foundation of Success
Honesty and integrity are absolutely essential for success in life – all areas of life. The really good news is that anyone can develop both honesty and integrity.
Zig Ziglar
The success of any savings group or business initiative depends on a strong foundation of trust and integrity. The women we met shared that their financial system thrived because every member was accountable.
This was a crucial takeaway for us: If we want to build something sustainable, we must commit to honesty in our dealings. Whether saving money or running a small business, integrity ensures longevity and success.
3. Skills Can Become Sustainable Livelihoods
Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.
Chris Grosser
Crocheting and knitting might seem like simple crafts, but for the women we met, they were more than just hobbies—they were sources of income, independence, and dignity. Many of them started with no prior experience, yet through training and perseverance, they now generate steady earnings.
This experience challenged us to rethink our own skills. What do we have in our hands that we can turn into a business? Whether it’s baking, tailoring, or making jewelry, there is always something we can cultivate into an opportunity. Our eyes were opened to the reality that financial empowerment begins with taking action, even in small ways.
4. A Willing Heart Opens Doors
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
Mahatma Gandhi
One of the most touching moments of our study tour was when the women we visited offered to come and teach our community. They saw our eagerness to learn and responded with generosity. This reinforced an important truth: when we are willing to learn, opportunities for growth will always find us.
A humble and teachable heart attracts people who are willing to invest in us. As we continue our journey toward financial empowerment, we welcome mentorship, collaboration, and shared knowledge. After all, iron sharpens iron—and together, we rise.
Moving Forward
This study tour was an incredible reminder that education is not limited to the classroom. Learning from real-life experiences and from those who have walked the journey before us is invaluable. As we move forward, we are inspired to take action: forming savings groups, embracing integrity in our financial dealings, developing income-generating skills, and remaining open to learning.
