Page 109 - Zakat & Waqf: Impact on Women and Community Development

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these women to engage in work or entrepreneurial activities, the
financial burden of nursery expenses becomes a substantial
impediment. The cost of nursery services becomes an additional strain
on their limited financial resources, creating a situation where the costs
potentially outweigh the economic benefit of work. The participants
unanimously agree that they choose not to work as they believe it will
incur more expenses to send the children to nursery.

Confronted with this financial challenge, womenpreneurs in the B40
community are left with a difficult choice. On one hand, they may find
it financially unfeasible to come to work, as the expense of childcare
services negates any potential earnings. On the other hand, there is the
alternative of bringing their children to a community centre while they
work. However, this option is not without its complexities. In this
scenario, not only are these womenpreneurs responsible for their
children's care, but they must also concurrently engage in the
production of handmade bags, contributing to a demanding and
multitasking environment.

The financial strain associated with childcare becomes a root cause,
setting a series of challenges for womenpreneurs in the B40
community (Rahman et al, 2023). These challenges underscore the
need for holistic and innovative solutions that address the economic
aspects and the intricate intersectionality of familial and
entrepreneurial responsibilities. The Jarum Emas Project, under the
Islamic Social Finance for B40 Community initiative, aims to navigate
and alleviate these challenges by providing a comprehensive approach
that empowers womenpreneurs within this community.

2) Lack of motivation and support
The participants of the Jarum Emas Project are grappling with an
additional layer of difficulty that extends beyond financial challenges.

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