The goal of microenterprise, according to John Matthews, administrator of small business services for the Louisiana Department of Economic Development, is “to empower people of low to moderate income to achieve self-sufficiency through self-employment. We consider it to be a key component of our economy,” he said.

Sister Guste’s award, presented in early April, was for individual achievement. Other awards were given in “Private Entity” and “Public Organization” categories.

“Nominations were received from all over Louisiana,” Matthews said. “We gave her the award because she has dedicated over three years of her time to illuminate the importance of microenterprise as a tool to curb poverty and give citizens opportunities to better themselves and their families.”

“She has spearheaded activities that have resulted in the state earning critical dollars to help get microenterprise development off the ground. On several occasions she traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent the state and to provide a voice for aspiring entrepreneurs.”

Sister Guste is a founding member and past president of the Microenterprise Development Alliance of Louisiana (MEDAL).