Thor’s Journey: From Struggles to Success with R.I.S.E

The Journey Before R.I.S.E.: Overcoming Barriers to Entrepreneurship

For many, the path to financial independence is filled with obstacles, but for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the challenges can be even greater. Thor, a determined entrepreneur from the Philippines, knows this struggle all too well. Diagnosed with a seizure disorder, finding stable employment was nearly impossible. Employers hesitated to hire him due to concerns over his condition, leaving him with limited options to support himself.

Determined to carve his own path, Thor turned to disability entrepreneurship, setting up a small pungko-pungko stall—a local street food business where customers crouch while eating. It was a courageous move, but the road was tough. Competition was fierce, unpredictable weather affected his sales, and without proper business training, sustaining a livelihood was an uphill battle.

Yet, Thor understood that resilience alone wasn’t enough. He needed the right skills and knowledge to build a sustainable small business that could thrive despite the challenges. This drive for growth led him to the Maybank R.I.S.E. Programme, an initiative designed to support PWD entrepreneurs through economic empowerment, providing them with the necessary tools, training, and mentorship to succeed.

The R.I.S.E. Programme: A Catalyst for Financial Inclusion for PWDs

The Maybank R.I.S.E. Programme, implemented by People Systems Consultancy (PSC), focuses on helping PWDs and marginalised communities achieve financial independence. It provides entrepreneurship training for those looking to start their own ventures, while also equipping participants with financial and business management skills that can help them succeed in employment or self-employment. More importantly, it fosters financial inclusion for PWDs, ensuring they have access to the knowledge and resources necessary for long-term success.

Through the programme, Thor learned the essentials of operational planning, market positioning, and financial management. One of the biggest takeaways for him was understanding the impact of competition on his daily earnings. He realised that the influx of competitors during the weekdays significantly cut into his profits. Armed with this new insight, Thor adjusted his strategy and made a game-changing decision—he started operating on Sundays, when no other vendors were selling.

The results were remarkable. Within just four months, his income increased by 60%, proving that strategic shifts, even small ones, could make a profound impact.

But Thor didn’t stop there.

Beyond Street Food: Expanding Sustainable Livelihoods

Another key concept Thor learned through the R.I.S.E. Programme was the Blue Ocean Strategy, which encourages entrepreneurs to look beyond existing market constraints and explore new opportunities. Inspired by this approach, Thor took a bold step—he reinvested a portion of his earnings to start a small piggery. This diversification provided him with an additional income stream, reducing the financial instability that often comes with relying on a single business.

By embracing economic empowerment, Thor transitioned from merely surviving to actively growing his business portfolio. His decision to expand beyond his street food stall was a strategic move that aligned with the programme’s vision of transforming lives through social impact initiatives for Persons with Disabilities.

Today, Thor's piggery is steadily growing, providing him with long-term financial security and sustainable livelihoods for his family. His story exemplifies how supporting PWD entrepreneurs through economic empowerment leads to more inclusive economic growth and greater social impact.

A Future of Financial Stability and Growth

With the tools and financial literacy he gained from R.I.S.E., Thor now effectively manages both his personal and business finances. He no longer worries about affording his medication, and his improved income has given his family greater financial stability.

Most importantly, Thor’s journey is proof that financial inclusion for PWDs isn’t just about access to opportunities—it’s about equipping individuals with the right skills to succeed in a competitive business landscape. His transformation serves as a powerful example of how building sustainable small businesses for Persons with Disabilities can create lasting change, both for individuals and their communities.

Thor’s story is not just one of survival—it’s a story of triumph.

Creating More Success Stories with Maybank R.I.S.E.

Thor’s journey underscores the profound impact of entrepreneurship training on individuals, particularly PWDs, who are often excluded from traditional employment opportunities. Through structured learning, mentorship, and financial support, the Maybank R.I.S.E. Programme is actively reshaping the landscape of financial inclusion for PWDs and marginalised communities.

But the journey doesn’t stop here. There are thousands of other individuals like Thor who are ready to break barriers, build sustainable businesses, and achieve economic independence.

If you believe in fostering economic empowerment and supporting initiatives that create sustainable livelihoods for PWDs, join us in making a difference. Learn more about how the Maybank R.I.S.E. Programme is transforming lives and how you can be part of this movement.

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