Bien

Bien is a 30-year-old Congolese man who, fearing for his life in the midst of heavy fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), fled his home country and arrived to Nairobi, Kenya in March 2009.

Beginning a new life in the city, without resources or connections was not easy for Bien. However, Bien was proactive and worked hard to start a barbershop business so that he could ensure he had food on his table and a roof over his head.

When RefugePoint met Bien, and saw the tenacity and determination he had, it was evident that his business had the potential for growth and development.

The core mission of RefugePoint’s Livelihoods team is to help refugees start or expand businesses by providing business skills training that will enable them to support themselves, without the need for continued aid. After attending the business skills training with our Livelihoods team, Bien received a business grant, which allowed him to make key improvements to his barbershop, including the purchase of a new barber seat, a stylish shaver and a music system to keep his customers entertained.

Knowing that first impressions are everything in business, Bien hired a creative artist who beautifully painted the barbershop entrance with lively and colorful images, distinguishing his shop from others in the neighborhood. “What you did helped me reach my goal of getting new clients to visit my shop. I thank you and I love you so much RefugePoint. Only a few people get such an opportunity and I love that you considered me. I will do my business daily to make you proud,” said Bien. Since upgrading his business premises, Bien has seen an increase in his sales and he now has new clients walking into his shop every day.