By Claudette Toa, Development Manager,
World Vision Vanuatu
During a savings end-of-cycle share-out in Port Vila, a woman proudly shared that she had bought her family's first washing machine. As the group applauded, she smiled and said, "I never thought I would be able to afford something like this through my own savings."
It may seem like a simple purchase, but in that moment, I was reminded why the Inclusive Savings for Transformation (IS4T) groups supported through the Nourish Project are so important. Behind every savings book is a story of determination, sacrifice, and hope for a better future.
Working with urban communities in Port Vila has helped me understand how important cash is for everyday survival. Families must pay rent, buy food, cover school fees, and meet many other household expenses. Yet many of the people I work with do not have formal employment. Instead, they earn small and often irregular incomes through activities such as selling food, tailoring, selling local drinks, and running other small businesses.
Life is not easy when income is uncertain. A single emergency can quickly create financial stress. This is why I have been inspired to see people commit to saving, even when they have very little to spare. Through Inclusive Saving for Transformation groups, members save small amounts regularly and support one another to reach their goals. Over time, these small contributions grow into something much bigger. The savings help families manage daily expenses, respond to emergencies, invest in livelihoods, and plan for the future.
What has surprised me most is that the impact goes far beyond money.
During one meeting, a member shared something that has stayed with me. She said, "I am an introvert and usually keep to myself, but the savings group gave me confidence and helped me discover leadership skills that I didn't know I had. Today, I am able to lead others."
During one meeting, a member shared something that has stayed with me. She said, "I am an introvert and usually keep to myself, but the savings group gave me confidence and helped me discover leadership skills that I didn't know I had. Today, I am able to lead others."
Her words reminded me that savings groups are about more than financial resilience. They create safe spaces where people learn from each other, share experiences, and build confidence. As members take on responsibilities within their groups, many discover strengths and abilities they never knew they had.
Over the past year, I have heard many inspiring stories from group members. Some have used their savings to pay school fees for their children. Others have invested in small businesses by purchasing equipment such as sewing machines. Some have been able to repair their homes, pay outstanding land rent, or save for travel to visit family on their home islands. One young woman told me she is saving towards starting her own business.
Listening to these stories brings me great joy. While these achievements may appear modest to some, they represent major milestones for the families involved. They reduce stress, create opportunities, and provide a sense of security that many people have not experienced before.
Another important lesson I have learned is the value of emergency savings.
Vanuatu is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. Cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and other hazards can quickly disrupt lives and livelihoods. Many savings group members understand this reality all too well. Through Inclusive Savings for Transformation, members are encouraged to set aside money not only for personal goals but also for emergencies. Having savings available during difficult times can make a huge difference. Whether it is a medical expense, damage to a home, loss of income, or the impact of a disaster, emergency savings provide a financial cushion when it is needed most.
Being part of the Nourish Project has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my work. The people I meet continue to inspire me. Despite rising living costs, climate-related challenges, and everyday struggles, they remain determined to create better opportunities for themselves and their families
During savings group meetings, I often share an analogy about a leaking tap.
A dripping tap fills a bucket one drop at a time. At first, the progress is hardly noticeable. But day after day, the bucket slowly fills until it reaches the top. Savings work in exactly the same way. When people save a little at a time and remain committed, those small contributions eventually become something significant.
As I reflect on the journeys of the savings group members, I realize that Inclusive Saving for Transformation is helping to bring hope during uncertain times. It is helping families become more resilient, more confident, and more prepared for the future.
The washing machine, the school fees, the sewing machine, or the emergency fund may each seem like small achievements on their own. But together, they tell a much bigger story. They show what is possible when people are given the opportunity, support, and confidence to invest in themselves.
Every time I visit a savings group, I am reminded that transformation often starts small. And sometimes, the smallest savings can lead to the biggest changes.