By Savarinathan Maria Arasu | Founder Director
Advancing Women, One Step at a Time
Akshaya Self Help Group (SHG) Federation continues its steadfast commitment to women’s empowerment by extending microfinance assistance to the next round of women’s groups, reinforcing its mission to promote sustainable, women-led livelihoods. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with LACIM, France, marks another meaningful milestone in strengthening grassroots entrepreneurship, resilience, and economic independence among women from underserved communities.
Women often face multiple barriers when attempting to start or expand income-generating activities—limited access to capital, lack of institutional support, and social constraints being among the most significant. Recognizing these challenges, Akshaya SHG Federation has designed its microfinance program to be inclusive, empowering, and responsive to the real needs of women. Through this latest round of financial assistance, women’s groups have received timely support to initiate small enterprises, scale existing ventures, and stabilize household incomes.
The microfinance support is not merely financial; it is transformational. By placing trust in women and enabling collective decision-making within SHGs, the Federation nurtures confidence, leadership, and mutual accountability. The women supported through this program are engaged in a wide range of livelihood activities, including tailoring, petty shops, food processing, agriculture-related enterprises, and other small-scale businesses that contribute directly to family well-being and local economic growth.
A key strength of the Akshaya SHG Federation model lies in its holistic approach. Alongside access to credit, women are encouraged to build financial discipline, savings habits, and entrepreneurial skills. Group discussions, peer learning, and regular meetings help members share experiences, overcome challenges, and celebrate successes together. This collective strength enables women not only to withstand economic shocks but also to grow with confidence and dignity.
The collaboration with LACIM, France, has played a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of this initiative. Their continued support reflects a shared vision of empowering women as agents of change and investing in community-driven development. This partnership demonstrates how international solidarity can effectively strengthen local efforts and create lasting social impact.
Most importantly, the ripple effects of this initiative extend beyond individual beneficiaries. As women gain economic independence, they invest in their children’s education, improve family health and nutrition, and actively participate in community decision-making. Each supported enterprise becomes a step toward breaking cycles of poverty and inequality.
Akshaya SHG Federation firmly believes that empowering women is one of the most effective pathways to sustainable development. By advancing women one step at a time, this microfinance initiative is helping build stronger families, resilient communities, and a more equitable future. With continued collaboration and support, the journey toward inclusive growth and women-led development will move forward with renewed hope and determination.
By Savarinathan Maria Arasu | Founder Director
By Savarinathan Maria Arasu | Founder Director
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