A Cord of Three Strands Is Not Easily Broken
Updated: Aug 8
“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:12
The Virtuous Women Credit and Loan Cooperative Society's (VWCLCS) partnership with Partners Worldwide (PW) started at the inception of the cooperative in 2014. It has been an incredible partnership because of the alignment of our visions and values.
From the very beginning, we both shared a common desire—to advocate for those who do not have a voice, create access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs, and provide business training that empowers women to build sustainable livelihoods. It was a partnership that lined up perfectly, or so we thought.
Our journey took an exciting turn when, through this partnership, we were introduced to our first Business Affiliate (BA), Nathan Engbers. His support, alongside Partners Worldwide, helped make one of our dreams a reality. Together, we acquired a tractor to assist farmers who were struggling with access to mechanised farming.
Running the tractor for this purpose proved to be far more challenging than we had ever imagined. Like many worthwhile initiatives, there were obstacles and valuable lessons along the way. Through it all, one thing remained constant—Partners Worldwide never gave up on us. Their encouragement and unwavering belief in our vision kept us moving forward, even during the difficult seasons.
Then everything took another exciting turn.
We were introduced to a new Business Affiliate, Danae Handorf. Together with her husband, Tim Handorf, Danae not only shares our vision but has been deeply committed to helping us make the tractor more sustainable. Through their support, we have been able to invest in new tyres and important upgrades, while they continue to help us explore better ways to maximise the tractor’s use, extend its working period each year, and generate stronger revenue to support our long-term goals and expand our impact.
As soon as Danae came on board as our Business Affiliate, she and Partners Worldwide helped make another dream possible—our dream of becoming a digital cooperative. Today, our members can apply for loans and receive approvals online, an amazing achievement for a cooperative and an important step towards serving our members more efficiently.
Danae also visited us here in Nigeria to see firsthand the work we do, encourage our members, and better understand how she could continue supporting our mission. Her visit reminded us that genuine partnership is more than funding projects—it is about building relationships, sharing a vision, and growing together.
This partnership has given us a deeper understanding of what Ecclesiastes 4:12 means:
“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.”
For us, those three strands are Partners Worldwide, Virtuous Women, and our Business Affiliates. Together, we have accomplished far more than any of us could have achieved alone.
As we look to the future, we remain grateful for a partnership built on trust, shared values, and a common purpose. We are excited about what lies ahead and the many more lives that can be transformed through collaboration.
If you are considering becoming a Business Affiliate, we invite you to join us. You may be surprised by the difference your support, encouragement, and expertise can make in changing the lives of women, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact.
The “cord of three strands” also reminds us that partnership, shared purpose, and mutual support strengthen our work, create meaningful impact, and reignite hope.
Thank you for sharing. This is insightful.