Anna Gueghamyan, 45, is wife, mother of three boys and now successful bakery owner, with the help of small loans from World Vision Armenia's microfinance institution, SEF. She’s proving that the modern Armenian woman can run a household, nurture her family and also contribute financially by starting up a small business. Her much-demanded sweet Armenian pastry gata is testimony of her skill, hard work and determination to succeed.

“I confess in the beginning I didn't believe that our business would prosper. Now I see the results. I am thankful to my wife that she has done it. I am also happy that she has a job she likes and puts so much effort into it”, says Anna’s husband with pride. Photo by Gayane Ayvazyan. Read full story here.

They are nurturers, family guardians, trailblazers and successful businesswomen – helped by economic opportunities provided by small loans and big belief in their potential. This International Women’s Day, March 8, we acknowledge and celebrate their skills, courage and contribution to their families and society…