From Struggle to Self-Reliance – A Woman’s Journey of Change

A simple story of change

Rukhsana (fictional) lives in Simalbari village Ward No 2 in Kishanganj. She is 25 years old and a mother of three children. Her life was not easy. Her husband works outside as a laborer but the income was not enough to run the house properly. Most of her time went into household work. She stayed inside the home and never really got a chance to think about herself. Going out and doing something on her own felt difficult because of family hesitation and social pressure. At that time a team from Janta Express Welfare Foundation came to the village. They started meeting families and talking to women about learning skills and becoming independent. When they spoke to Rukhsana (fictional) and her family it was not easy in the beginning. The family was unsure and a little worried. But after regular discussions and counseling they slowly understood and agreed to let her join the training. Rukhsana (fictional) then joined the sewing training. In the beginning everything was new for her but she continued to attend regularly. For 7 months she kept learning with full dedication. Along with sewing she also gained confidence. Today Rukhsana (fictional) has changed her life. She now stitches clothes for people in her village and earns a regular income. She is supporting her family and has become more confident and independent. Rukhsana (fictional) says that if she had not received the right support at the right time her life might have remained the same. She thanks Janta Express Welfare Foundation for giving her not just a skill but also a new identity and confidence. Now her story is becoming an example for other women in the village.