By Soph Stephens | Digital Fundraiser
Radhika, a 22-year-old woman, embarked on a journey towards economic independence when she joined the sewing class provided by our partners, the BH Amravati project. In a society where traditional gender roles are incremental in family life and decision-making, Radhika faced a unique challenge.
Her father's health struggles due to a heart condition, meaning he is unable to work and contribute financially. As a result, Radhika's mother, who lacked formal education, took on the role of the sole earner by assisting in cooking at large wedding functions. However, this provided only sporadic income and offered little stability.
Determined to alleviate the financial strain on her family, Radhika proactively sought work opportunities after completing her education. She decided to pursue training in tailoring through the BH Amravati project. With dedication and perseverance, she quickly acquired the necessary skills and graduated.
Starting with a humble order for a single blouse, Radhika's entrepreneurial journey began. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns disrupted her mother's cooking jobs as large-scale wedding events were prohibited. Despite the challenging circumstances, Radhika's small tailoring business remained resilient and began to attract an increasing number of orders.
The success of her business became a lifeline for her family. Radhika's mother no longer bore the overwhelming burden she had previously carried, as Radhika’s income grew steadily. Even after the restrictions were lifted, her mother’s workload was significantly reduced. As Radhika’s tailoring skills flourished, she managed to keep up with the growing customer demand! Through the support of the project and her commercial spirit, she has become a source of inspiration for other women facing similar circumstances. By embracing her talents and resourcefulness, Radhika has taken significant steps towards creating a brighter future for herself and her family.
Radhika's journey highlights the impact of skill-building initiatives such as this project, particularly with an emphasis on supporting women in the local community. Now, more women like Radhika can pursue economic independence, fostering a sense of autonomy and financial stability.
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