Bajaj Finserv’s pioneering initiative, Non-Traditional Livelihood, is revolutionizing the lives of women by empowering them with transformative skills and knowledge. Under this impactful project, Mohan Kandekar, Skill Centre Head of Ahilyanagar, testifies to the profound influence this engagement has had on the lives of women, unlocking new opportunities and fostering economic independence.”
What happens when a woman, weighed down by financial instability, societal expectations, and a longing for a better future, chooses to break free from the limitations of her circumstances? This is the story of Pradnya Gaikwad, a woman who, against all odds, reshaped her future. Her journey demonstrates that transformation is not just a dream but a tangible reality. Let’s explore Pradnya’s story and discover how it all unfolded.
Pradnya Gaikwad, a 35-year-old woman from Bholegaon, Ahilya Nagar, was living a life full of challenges. Widowed and struggling to support her two children, she faced a multitude of hurdles, including financial instability, the demands of balancing work with family responsibilities, and limited opportunities for personal growth. Yet, despite the over burden of her circumstances, she dared to dream of a better life.
It was during a community awareness event that Pradnya first heard about CYDA and its Non-Traditional Livelihood Program. The program was designed to provide short-term, free training to women like her, focusing on both hard and soft skills to improve their employability. Fascinated by the opportunity, she decided to attend the orientation session, hoping that this could be the break she needed.
After the orientation, she felt a renewed sense of hope and confidence. The program, which offered training in essential skills such as communication, job readiness and financial literacy, seemed like a perfect opening for her to gain the tools she needed to improve her situation. She decided to join the program, eager to learn and change the trajectory of her life.
CYDA’s intervention provided Pradnya with the support she desperately needed. The training sessions, led by experienced professionals, were comprehensive and practical. They taught Pradnya not just the technical skills needed for employment, but also the soft skills required to navigate the workplace successfully. She learnt about communication, time management, and job readiness, all of which helped her become more confident and prepared for the job market.
In addition to the training, CYDA provided mental health support, helping Pradnya manage stress and balance her family responsibilities with her personal growth. The program gave her a sense of community, allowing her to connect with other women facing similar challenges. This support network became a pillar of strength for her, boosting her confidence and giving her the motivation to keep going.
Key Takeaways:
After completing the program, Pradnya felt ready to take on the world. Equipped with her new skills and renewed self-belief, she began searching for employment opportunities. Her persistence paid off when she secured a position as a receptionist at a local hospital. This job, offering a monthly salary of Rs.15,000/-, marked a significant turning point in her life. It provided financial stability, allowing her to meet her children’s educational needs and contribute to the household expenses.
Pradnya by entering into a non-traditional job role, she challenged societal expectations and inspired other women in her community to consider alternative career paths. She proved that with appropriate training, determination, and support, it was possible to break free from traditional gender roles and create a fulfilling career.
Pradnya’s journey had a deep impact on her community. As a woman who challenged the odds and pursued a non-traditional career, she became a role model for other young women in Bholegaon. Her success highlighted the power of CYDA’s intervention in empowering women and creating long-term positive change. By challenging traditional gender roles and pursuing a fulfilling career, Pradnya could transform her own life and also became an inspiration for others in her community.
CYDA transformative impact of education, skill development, and community-driven interventions. Thanks to CYDA’s Non-Traditional Livelihood Program, Pradnya was able to break free from the cycle of poverty and create a new future for herself and her children.
