Empowered Female Entrepreneurship with Support from Norway

"The number of customers has increased as we received certificates, and the market is expanding, as we can now sell products in health food stores as well. I am now more financially stable and independent, and we are satisfied because we can provide more for the children and ourselves, " Jelena Glušica Nikolić concludes

Entrepreneur Jelena Glušica Nikolić from Nikšić has been collecting, growing and processing organic medicinal herbs for two decades. Already in 2013, she started producing macerates, tinctures and teas, and thanks to the support of the Kingdom of Norway, her herbal cosmetics are now available in stores throughout Montenegro.

The line of her products - Aroma natural cosmetics - is based on the essential oils of sage, immortelle and lavender, and Jelena states that her products are tested, safe and very healing.

"This job is very important for me and my family. We are all fulfilled with growing plants, and we receive praise from our customers, because our products help them treat skin and mucous membrane problems,” Jelena explains.

She is one of 11 entrepreneurs who received support in mentoring, education, creating a visual identity, development of websites and promotional material, with the aim of improving product quality, visibility, market competitiveness and profitability of their businesses.

“The project "Norway for You - Montenegro" helped me in the certification and standardization of my products. Product tests were done at the Institute of Public Health, which issued certificates for balms, face and body creams, and tinctures, which contributed a lot to the development of my business,” Jelena says.

She wants to continue to improve her business, create new products and continue growing lavender and marigold.

"The number of customers has increased as we received certificates, and the market is expanding, as we can now sell products in health food stores as well. I am now more financially stable and independent, and we are satisfied because we can provide more for the children and ourselves, " Jelena Glušica Nikolić concludes.