“I never imagined I could have a business of my own. Now, people come to me.” – Yolande
Yolande wasn’t about to let her disability define her. Instead, she would inspire others—building herself a future despite the limitations she had faced.
Yolande was just 10 years old, living with her uncle in Côte d’Ivoire, when she first contracted leprosy. Instead of taking her to a hospital, her uncle brought her to traditional healers who treated her with boiling water. Without proper medical care, Yolande developed a disability and eventually lost the ability to walk.
Fortunately, she was later admitted to a hospital in a neighbouring town where she finally received the treatment and surgery she needed to restore her mobility. But after many years of isolation—cut off from her community and support system—Yolande had to rediscover her purpose and rebuild her life.
In 2024, Yolande’s life changed again—this time through hope.
Leprosy Relief Canada, in partnership with Effect Hope and Hope Commission International, launched the Côte d’Ivoire RESTORE project. Its goal: to improve livelihoods for people affected by leprosy through income-generating activities.
Yolande became a recipient of a small business grant through RESTORE, which allowed her to open a mini grocery store. With her own stand and products to sell, she now earns an income and supports herself and her two children.
“Now, with a stand and things to sell, I feel a renewed sense of self-worth and empowerment.”
📘 Read more stories like Yolande’s in our 2024 Impact Report.
