Amritapuri, Kerala: A powerful example of how skill development can create lasting social and economic impact is emerging from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Center for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality (CWEGE) and AMMACHI Labs through the SANKALP AVSAR Skill Training Programme (2021–2023).
After successfully completing the programme, Bincy transformed the crochet skills she acquired into a flourishing small business. Alongside her tailoring work, she now receives bulk crochet orders, marking a significant milestone in her entrepreneurial journey. Recently, she proudly presented her own business card to the Amrita team, reflecting her transition from trainee to independent entrepreneur.
Bincy’s success has also opened doors to new opportunities. Through a professional connection established during a Civil 20 (C20) India meeting in Odisha, she was invited to conduct paid crochet workshops for deaf women in Kochi. By sharing her expertise, she is not only building her own livelihood but also empowering others through skill transfer and inclusive employment opportunities.
Continuing her entrepreneurial journey, Bincy has partnered with fellow SANKALP AVSAR graduate Sreeshma to complete a special order of 200 handmade sunflower crochet pieces for a wedding. Their collaboration demonstrates how vocational training, determination and sustained mentorship can evolve into successful micro-enterprises that generate income while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
The achievements of Bincy and Sreeshma highlight the long-term impact of Amrita’s women empowerment initiatives, which focus on equipping women with practical skills, fostering entrepreneurship and creating pathways towards financial independence.
The products created by these artisans are showcased through the WE Project Store, an initiative that promotes inclusive growth, sustainable livelihoods and community development while supporting women-led enterprises. The initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Through initiatives such as the SANKALP AVSAR Skill Training Programme, Amrita continues to demonstrate how targeted capacity building, community partnerships and entrepreneurship can empower women to become catalysts for inclusive and sustainable development.
