At Asili, clean water is what we’re all about. And our water sales have been so popular in the rural areas of Eastern Congo, that recently we’ve decided to extend our business into the big city of Bukavu as well. Dozens of businesses, restaurants, and shops now buy our water.
Patmos is one of them. Owned by a young woman named Joelle and her friend, it’s a brand new restaurant that offers everything from sandwiches, pizza, barbeque, and more. And now, they serve up cold glasses of Asili water, too.
But Patmos was missing a few things – the walls needed painting, there were no table accessories (like napkin and straw holders), and worst of all, they didn’t have a sign. So for Day 305, in the spirit of friendship, mutual support, and recognition for the work that they’ve done to get their business off the ground, we’re giving the ladies of Patmos a little boost of encouragement.
We spent some time in Patmos, chatting with Joelle over delicious chicken wraps. “We want to make sure people feel comfortable here,” she said. “And that the place is always clean and fresh looking.”
And finishing up our sandwiches – which were so good! – we set to work. We purchased new curtains, new glass panes for the broken door, a fresh coat of paint, and napkin and straw holders. And, a brand new sign of course.
“Now, everyone will know the name of my business!” said Joelle.
“Joelle has really done a great job with this place,” says Abraham, Asili’s fearless leader. “The food is really really good. And they’re young women with a great sense of business, who are very motivated. They can serve as an inspiration to other young Congolese women and girls who have dreams like this too. It’s important to support them in helping Patmos reach its potential.”
Joelle had a dream to start her very own business. And she’s done it. But with just a little extra support, her small shop is getting its footing, and making a name for itself in Bukavu.
