A Young Woman in Khokar Becomes an Entrepreneur

By Shae Davidson

The wages earned by Rani and her husband were not enough to provide food for their children–let alone cover their school expenses. Looking for a way to support her family and gain more independence, she began taking a sewing class at the Building Bridges India center in Khokar.

BGR partner Building Bridges India empowers women in southern Punjab to become entrepreneurs. Community centers help women learn to use sewing and embroidery skills as a foundation for building business skills. In addition to courses on marketing and sales, BBI helps women explore social issues related to gender and offers literacy training.

Using the skills she learned at the center in Khokar, Rani began crafting clothing and stuffed animals. Her skills as a tailor and artisan drew the attention of buyers. Rani’s monthly income of 5,000 to 6,000 rupees allowed her to move her family out of her in-laws’ home. She was also able to enroll her children in school. “I want to educate my children well,” Rani explained to a BBI staff member, “so their futures will be brighter than mine.”

Shae Davidson is a member of BGR’s board of directors.