The unwavering support extended by United Way Hyderabad towards the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ communities has been instrumental in bringing about meaningful change and deserves high praise. Pritesh Kamble, Director, Rainbow Roots Foundation, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and relentless commitment in engaging with the LGBTQIA+ community. Through his inspiring leadership and deep sense of purpose, he has opened doors to hope, independence, and empowerment for countless individuals.
John (name changed) a young and proud gay individual, always had a deep passion for fashion and design. His love for fashion was not just about clothes; it was an essential form of self-expression, a way to connect with the world and communicate his creativity. Despite his immense passion, John found himself trapped in the harsh realities of life. His financial circumstances were far from ideal, with earnings of just Rs.5000/- to Rs.7000/- per month. However, the love for his craft kept him going. With a modest income, he faced the reality of limited resources, but his ambition never wavered. While the path seemed unclear, one thing was certain—fashion was his future. Yet, turning this dream into a reality was no simple task.
Challenges and struggles – Fighting against the odds
John’s entrepreneurial journey was filled with hurdles from the very beginning. With limited financial resources, he faced enormous difficulties in sourcing quality materials for his designs. The challenge of understanding market preferences and managing production was overwhelming. He had a strong set of skills in sewing, but the complexities of running a business have been far beyond his initial understanding. His days were filled with uncertainty, working tirelessly but with no clear roadmap. Every small step forward was met with several setbacks such as – financial constraints, limited customer awareness and difficulty in managing his craft into a viable business model. It seemed like the gap between his passion and success was impossible to bridge.
The Turning Point
Everything began to change when John came across CYDA which empowers young individuals through practical skills training and business education to become entrepreneurs. Upon enrolling in comprehensive workshops, he found himself surrounded by other aspiring entrepreneurs. More importantly, he gained access to crucial resources that would completely reshape his outlook on entrepreneurship. He received hands-on training in financial management, business marketing strategies and the fundamentals of running a sustainable business.
The moment I joined CYDA, I realized I was not alone in my struggle. I am surrounded by people who understood the challenges I faced and I was given the tools and knowledge to make my dreams come true – Admits John
A Journey to Success
With the comprehensive support John’s world transformed. He gained valuable insights into financial planning, marketing strategies and customer outreach, all of which were crucial for his business success. Perhaps the most impactful intervention came in the form of a grant of Rs.10,000/- from CYDA, which allowed him to purchase a sewing machine and essential fabrics. This grant was not just money—it was the stepping stone he needed to kick-start his business.
CYDA gave me not just financial aid, but the confidence to believe in myself as an entrepreneur. They equipped me with the tools I needed to move forward. Today, I earn Rs. 10,000/- monthly, which is a huge achievement for me, especially compared to the little I made before,” says John with a smile – Proudly says John
With a clearer understanding of how to manage his business, John began to see growth. What once felt impossible now seemed achievable. His designs, once hidden behind financial challenges, started to shine in the market. As word spread, he gained a steady customer base. Beyond the financial boost, mentorship gave him the emotional strength and technical knowledge to continue pushing boundaries. John’s success also serves as an inspiration to other young individuals who are passionate about pursuing their dreams, despite the obstacles they may face.
CYDA’s role in empowering individuals like John is invaluable. By providing access to education, training, and financial support, the organization helps turn dreams into reality, making a lasting difference in the lives of young entrepreneurs.
