"Empowering Dreams: Maryanne's Journey with NSLS to Financial Independence and Community Impact"

Maryanne Napoleon Evennett, a dedicated Public Servant with the West New Britain Provincial Administration, has not only excelled in her professional career but has also embarked on a journey towards financial empowerment, thanks to Nambawan Savings and Loan Society's innovative 1:5 Loan Product. Her decision to explore financial options and seek a solution to support her needs led her to choose this unique loan product, which has had a transformative impact on her life and the lives of those in her community.

Motivated by the desire to provide for her children's education and make a difference in her village of Kilenge, West New Britain, Maryanne decided to take advantage of the 1:5 Loan Product offered by Nambawan Savings and Loan Society. One day as she was visiting the Nambawan Super branch in Kimbe to obtain her superfund statement, the branch manager (named) mentioned to her the newly introduced 1:2 and 1:5 loan products which she was eligible to apply for. The loan amount the officer mentioned was significant enough for her to consider investing in buying copra back in her village as an additional source of income outside of her work with the Provincial Administration. With her eldest son being an Agriculture professional, Maryanne saw an opportunity to support him in his agricultural endeavors and also contribute to the economic development of her community.

One of the key challenges Maryanne faced during the loan application process was a delay in approval due to the lack of a signed memorandum of agreement between NSLS and the WNB Provincial Administration. Despite this setback, she persevered and eventually became the first Public Servant in the Provincial Administration to benefit from this unique loan product. Her determination paved the way for others to follow suit and access the financial assistance they needed to improve their livelihoods.

The impact of the 1:5 Loan Product on Maryanne's village of Kilenge has been significant. The cash generated from buying copra has provided much-needed relief to the villagers, especially during periods of drought when their crops have dried up. The money earned from this venture has helped families sustain themselves and avoid hunger, thereby reducing the likelihood of resorting to desperate measures like theft within the community. Maryanne's efforts have not only benefitted her personally but have also had a ripple effect on the overall well-being of the Kilenge villagers.

Maryanne's experience with Nambawan Savings and Loan Society has been nothing short of positive. The flexibility of their savings and withdrawal options, coupled with the quick processing time, has made it convenient for her to manage her finances effectively. She has been able to save consistently towards her future goals, including her younger children's education, retirement benefits, and housing expenses. The ease of accessing her savings and utilizing them for productive investments has empowered Maryanne to plan for her long-term financial stability.

Looking ahead, Maryanne has ambitious plans to venture into another agricultural business by buying taro from her village and selling it in outside markets. She envisions providing a platform for mothers in her community to sell their produce and earn a livelihood. By addressing the issue of poverty and unemployment in her village, Maryanne is not only contributing to economic growth but also fostering a sense of pride and self-sufficiency among the residents. Her commitment to creating opportunities for the youth and promoting sustainable development aligns with the Government's vision for a prosperous and inclusive society by 2050.

Despite the challenges she faces, such as high freight costs for transporting copra, Maryanne remains undeterred in her mission to make a difference in her community. Her determination to uplift others and alleviate poverty through her business ventures is driven by a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Maryanne's dedication to bringing positive change to her village exemplifies the spirit of service and generosity that defines her character and motivates her to continue making a difference in the lives of those around her.

In conclusion, Maryanne Napoleon Evennett's experience with Nambawan Savings and Loan Society serves as an inspiring example of how financial empowerment can transform lives and communities. Her journey towards financial independence, coupled with her commitment to creating opportunities for others, underscores the importance of access to innovative financial products and services in driving socio-economic development. Maryanne's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and compassion in making a meaningful impact on society. By harnessing the resources available to her and investing in the well-being of her community, Maryanne has not only secured a brighter future for herself and her family but has also planted the seeds for a brighter tomorrow for all those around her. She is also a Nambawan Super member, and she has been consistently saving towards her retirement with the superfund.

Approved for Release:

John Solok Chief Executive Officer for NSLS