Veronica, 62, Kenya

Veronica in the Classic Cafe When Veronica's daughter died as a result of AIDS in 2006, her immediate concern was for her two grandchildren, who were four and two at the time.

She said: "Their biological father lives in this town, but he has a drinking problem. He and my late daughter separated before she died."

Veronica took the grandchildren in and now looks after them as their primary carer. First off, she made sure they were tested for HIV. "The children are not infected," she says. "I am thankful for that."

To provide for her grandchildren, Veronica started selling bananas. But because of prolonged droughts her business failed.

However, being a resourceful and determined woman, she developed a new, better business idea and approached HelpAge International for a loan, which she received. With it, she opened a small eatery in Mangu town which she called the Classic Café.

Every day, Veronica goes to her café early in the morning to prepare tea and snacks for her morning customers as well as wholesome traditional Kenyan dishes based on maize, rice and beans.

She normally closes around 7pm.

HelpAge also gave Veronica, school uniforms, blankets and mosquito nets. She says: "The children are not as hungry as before because I am able to provide food for them and educate them. It is good to see them healthy."