Background: Kanaga Priya, a determined and creative woman, completed her education up to the 10th grade in her village. Constrained by financial challenges and being under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category, she faced significant obstacles in pursuing further education. After marrying Narayana, who works at a chocolate company, the couple aspired to improve their financial situation and build a better future for themselves.

The Turning Point: Priya's life took a transformative turn when she discovered the HOPE Project, an initiative by the SHINE NGO designed to empower women through vocational training and skill development. Seeing this as a valuable opportunity, Priya, known for her perseverance and creativity, enrolled in the tailoring course offered by the project.

Learning Tailoring: The HOPE Project provided Priya with comprehensive training in tailoring, covering everything from basic stitching techniques to designing modern garments. Her dedication and enthusiasm quickly made her one of the most promising students. Mastering the craft of tailoring, Priya began creating beautiful, custom-made garments that highlighted her exceptional skills.

Building a Business: After completing her training, Priya, with the unwavering support of her husband Narayana, decided to start her own tailoring business. Despite his demanding job at the chocolate company, Narayana actively assisted Priya with managing the business aspects, including finances and sourcing materials, during his free time. Together, they established a small tailoring shop in their village.

Success and Growth: Priya’s tailoring shop swiftly gained recognition for its high-quality workmanship and stylish designs. As word spread, she began receiving orders from neighboring villages as well. The business grew steadily, and soon Priya was able to hire additional staff to handle the increasing demand. Her tailoring enterprise became a crucial source of income for the family, providing them with financial stability and significantly improving their quality of life, despite their initial BPL status.

Impact on the Community: Priya's success story inspired many other women in her village. She became a symbol of hope and empowerment, demonstrating that determination and skill can lead to meaningful achievements. Beyond managing her business, Priya also began offering free tailoring workshops to other women in the village, promoting self-reliance and skill development.

Conclusion: Today, Kanaga Priya is celebrated as a successful entrepreneur, skillfully balancing her roles as a businesswoman and a supportive wife. Her journey from a 10th-grade student to a thriving tailor is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and the right opportunities. With the support of the HOPE Project by SHINE NGO and her husband Narayana’s unwavering belief in her potential, Priya has transformed her life and become a beacon of inspiration for her community.