Coforge CSR activities have transformed the lives of many women who need support to be an aspiring entrepreneur. Ms. Bhagyashree Waghmare, Project Officer, YouthAid Foundation writes about the journey of Bhakti Bharat Mahetar as an entrepreneur.
EDPs play a critical role in equipping entrepreneurs with essential skills, fostering innovation, and building confidence to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth. The interventions of Youth Aid Foundation played a crucial role in Bhakti’s transformation.
When passion meets the right support, magic happens. Curious to learn more about Bhakti’s journey? Let’s delve into her story and discover how YAF’s transformative interventions helped, turn her entrepreneurial dream into a thriving reality. From overcoming obstacles to achieving sustainable growth, Bhakti’s inspiring growth is a proof to the power of mentorship, guidance, and determination.
The Path of Challenges and Determination
Bhakti Bharat Mahetar, a resident of Phulewadi, Kolhapur, is a woman of resilience and vision. Living with her husband and two children, her life seemed ordinary at first glance, but her journey reveals a story of challenges and empowerment. Armed with a Bachelor of Arts degree, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey 15 years ago, driven by a passion for creating opportunities and addressing women’s skincare needs.
Her husband works hard to support the household, as his income was barely sufficient to meet the growing needs of their children and daily expenses. Bhakti’s dream of establishing a beauty parlor seemed disheartening, especially with limited financial resources and societal expectations weighing heavily on her shoulders. Despite the obstacles, her determination to carve a better future for her family and herself remained unshaken.
The Initial Struggles
Bhakti’s journey began with a desire to create something meaningful. With a meager investment of Rs.5,000/- to Rs.10,000/-, she set up a small beauty parlor in Phulewadi. However, the initial days, she relied solely on word-of-mouth publicity, which took time to build traction. The parlor struggled to attract customers, and she often found herself questioning her decision. Financial constraints added to the pressure as she juggled between managing her business and supporting her children’s education.
In those early days, Bhakti faced self-doubt and societal skepticism. She lacked formal training in business management and marketing, which made it difficult to expand her reach. Additionally, competition from established parlors in the location posed another challenge.
A Turning Point
Bhakti’s breakthrough came when she learnt about YAF through an organization in her community. Fascinated by the possibilities, she reached out to the team, hoping to find new opportunities to elevate her business. After discussing her aspirations and challenges, Bhakti enrolled in a three-day business training program organized at Sadguru Colony, Phulewadi.
The training proved to be a pivotal moment in Bhakti’s journey. The program covered key aspects of business management, including effective marketing strategies, customer relationship building, budget planning, financial management, and communication skills. For Bhakti, the training was not just about acquiring knowledge; it was a transformative experience that relighted her confidence and broadened her perspective.
Overcoming challenges with renewed confidence
Armed with insights from the training, Bhakti began implementing changes in her business. She revamped her marketing strategies, leveraging local networks and digital platforms to reach a broader audience. Understanding the importance of customer relationships, she prioritized personalized services and began educating her clients about skincare and beauty products. She started maintaining detailed records of her income and expenses, enabling her to identify areas for cost optimization and re-investment. The training also equipped her with the skills to communicate effectively, ensuring her clients felt valued and understood.
The results were amazing. Within a few months, Bhakti’s beauty parlor started serving 30–35 women each month, attracting more customers than ever. Her monthly income increased to Rs.30,000/- to Rs.35,000/-, providing much-needed financial stability to her family. More importantly, Bhakti’s confidence as a businesswoman soared, empowering her to dream bigger. Bhakti connected with like-minded individuals, exchanging ideas and experiences that enriched her entrepreneurial journey. This network became a source of inspiration and motivation, reminding her that she was not alone in her struggles.
Inspiring Empowerment and Transforming Lives
Bhakti’s success story extends beyond financial gains. Her journey has inspired other women in Phulewadi to explore entrepreneurship as a means of empowerment. By sharing her experiences, she has become a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those facing economic and societal challenges. Moreover, the growth of her business has positively impacted her family. With increased income, Bhakti can now afford better educational opportunities for her children and contribute to household expenses without financial strain. Her husband’s support has also strengthened their bond, as they work together to create a better future.
