A Woman's Business in Special Education

Zhang Siyu, 40 years-old with an associate degree, is the founder of a special education school for children in Jinan, Shandong Province.

Zhang Siyu lost her job because of a medical condition requiring longer treatment. After recovering, she borrowed 40,000 yuan (US$6,476) from relatives and friends to set up a special education school. The school aims to provide for children whose parents are busy. It creates a home-like space for children to have their meals, do their homework and get after-school tutoring before their parents come to pick them up.

Normally, this idea couldn't be better. However, the initial stages proved to be rather difficult due to a lack of funds. More money was needed to buy heating equipment, a television and books.

Thanks to the Women's Federation of Jinan City, Zhang managed to secure a micro credit loan and gradually expanded her vision from only one garden including 100 students, to six gardens of more than 600 students. Zhang's career was booming.

Zhang's endeavors in starting up her business and her courage in the face of numerous difficulties has won her many honorable titles, including the "51" labor medalist. She was also featured in the women entrepreneurs and top ten model women for second careers in Jinan City.

"I feel emboldened in terms of self-employment, helped by the backing of micro credit," she said.