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In her home country of Ivory Coast in West Africa, Simone Soro earned a master’s degree in public law. After getting married, she joined her husband, Tenezon, in the U.S. as he pursued his dream of becoming a pharmacist. Unable to speak English well, Simone took whatever jobs she could find to support the young couple – fast food, childcare, or as a cashier. Tenezon would attend pharmacy school at TSU during the week and work on the weekends. When their daughter, Abigail, was born in 2021, juggling work became more difficult without affordable childcare.
“When you have a master’s degree and you cannot do something, you have to learn,” said Simone. “And I know I have to learn English here if I want to work.”
With her 3-month old daughter in tow, Simone started her English (ESL) classes at MAM, enrolled in Employment Services, and completed the Employment Certification Program (ECP) while continuing to work low-wage jobs. When an emergency left the couple unable to pay rent one month, MAM’s STEP program was there to help. Simone also connected with a MAM Navigator, who helped her see untapped potential within herself.
“My navigator encouraged me… to do a small business to improve [our] income,” said Simone. “I cook very well so I say, let me start to sell African food to the community.” Taking a leap of faith, she enrolled in the first Innova Community Business Academy cohort at MAM and started her business, Deli’s African Market, during the entrepreneurship course.
“I learned so much. The MAM Team was there for me and we became like a family,” said Simone. “It was not easy. Sometimes I would finish work at 5pm, rush home to feed my family, and then go to class. I was tired, but… I didn’t miss one class. I say, I’m not alone, so I have to continue.”
Since completing Innova roughly a year ago, Simone’s business has grown by over 300%, importing high-quality African products direct from the source in her hometown and shipping to customers all over the United States.
“MAM saw something in me,” said Simone. “I say all the time I have to become a big businesswoman and help MAM and MAM will help another person to become like me. Thank you for everything.”
Simone’s story is a powerful reminder of how your support can transform lives. By donating to MAM, you’re helping families like Simone’s overcome challenges, achieve their dreams, and create brighter futures. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
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