Before I even stepped inside La Boulangerie Marguerite, I could feel its history. The navy shade, the timeless lettering, the small patio tables, and the way the bakery sits on the corner all signaled a place woven into the neighborhood long before I arrived. Even from the sidewalk, I could tell this was more than a business. It was a landmark — a place that had shaped memories for generations. Inside, I met François Kiemde, the owner. Warm, humble, and steady, he carries a s

At African Economic Development Solutions (AEDS), we believe that progress begins with people. Building Hope  is a space to share stories from entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders who have partnered with AEDS to strengthen their businesses and neighborhoods. Each story represents the resilience, creativity, and determination that drive our work. Through the AEDS Loan Fund, we provide access to capital and business training that help entrepreneurs grow, create jobs, a

A small loan. A steady path. A ripple of community impact. When Abdulaziz Kenfelcha arrived in the United States in 2009 with his wife and two children, he stepped into a new chapter filled with hope and uncertainty. He had come through the Diversity Visa lottery, grateful for the opportunity and determined to build a stable future for his family. Like many new immigrants, he entered a world where every system was unfamiliar and success depended on starting over from the begi

Finding Purpose, Building Confidence, and Creating Opportunity This week’s Building Hope story features Yeroon Addisu, a 23-year-old entrepreneur who is shaping his own future with determination, creativity, and support from AEDS. After high school, I was searching for direction. My parents encouraged me, supported me, and helped me explore different training programs, but I still felt unsure of where I belonged or how I could contribute in a way that felt meaningful. Then we