Nida Bautista operates a sari-sari (convenience) store in Bustos, Balacan, Philippines. She is disabled but “my disability has never been a hindrance to reach my dreams”, in her words.
Coca-Cola helps to empower women micro-entrepreneurs like Nida through its 5by20 programme where various aspects of Coca-Cola’s value chain are reached, from producer to supplier. The company and its bottling partners work with those on the ground, from fruit farmers and recyclers, to retailers and artisans.
In Philippines, The Sari-Sari Store Training and Access To Resources (STAR) initiative will help these women to receive assistance to improve their businesses and livelihoods. The STAR platform is located in more than 25 countries in the Philippines.
5by20 has reached more than 40 countries, with the aid of key partners such as UN Women and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. These efforts have paid off: Coca-Cola received the Catalyst Award in 2013 for their commitment to advance and empower women on the external and internal value chains.
This is a sponsored article.
