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International Women’s Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm by YouthAid Foundation and CYDA, with the support of the Coforge Volunteer Program, at CreatiCity Mall, Yerwada. Hundreds of dedicated women, who have benefited from Non-Traditional Livelihood (NTL) programs and micro-entrepreneurship initiatives, gathered to celebrate the joy of economic empowerment and self-reliance. The event highlighted the stories of transformation and resilience among women striving for financial independence and breaking traditional barriers.
The chief guest for the event was Mrs. Pranjali Sonawane, Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) of Yerwada Division. In her speech, she appealed to the mothers present to ensure that their daughters receive a proper education, gain confidence, and learn about freedom with responsibility. She emphasized that every woman possesses decision-making skills, as they make small yet significant decisions at home daily. This, she said, proves that they are capable of making major decisions in life as well.
ACP Sonawane, who was selected as a Deputy Superintendent of Police in 2012, has served in various departments across Mahad, Sangli, and Solapur. Since 2024, she has been serving as the Assistant Police Commissioner in Pune city, overseeing the areas of Yerwada, Viman Nagar, Chandan Nagar, Kharadi, Wagholi, and Lonikand. She urged the audience to break free from traditional ways of thinking and prepare young girls for new opportunities in the future. She further added: “When restrictions come, breaking them is not the only solution. Gaining freedom does not mean indulging in recklessness. Help your daughters understand this balance.”
She continued “If a woman can make decisions about everything from household expenses to cooking, she can excel in any field in the world.” “Raise your daughters well.” “You only get one life, so live it freely and joyfully.”
Then she guided the women present there “Love yourself. Never consider being a woman as something secondary. As a woman, you are a mother, a sister. Embrace it beautifully, without ever feeling bad about it—live with happiness and joy.”
The event featured inspiring testimonials from women who have successfully transformed their lives through the programs facilitated by YouthAid Foundation and CYDA. Their stories served as a beacon of motivation for others striving to achieve financial independence:
Karan Rajpal, a supporter of women entrepreneurs, spoke about how his mother started with cloth selling and gradually built a business. He acknowledged the remarkable efforts women put into developing their businesses and expressed his admiration for their perseverance.
Yasmin Shaikh shared how making reusable and eco-friendly sanitary napkins not only increased her income but also allowed her to be part of a greater cause, supporting women’s health and hygiene.
Bhagyashri credited her training for giving her the confidence to develop her business and sell her products anywhere.
Pooja Karwa from Coforge and YouthAid Foundation expressed gratitude for the marketing and sales training she received, which helped her build her business strategies.
The audience was particularly moved by the stories of Lakshmi, Prajnya Dhavde, Kirana Waghmare, and Renuka More, who successfully transitioned into non-traditional jobs: Lakshmi, a resident of Lakshmi Nagar, overcame financial struggles by enrolling in security guard training. She now works at the International Osho Ashram, earning ₹20,000 per month. She even purchased a second-hand vehicle with her own savings for work transportation, marking a significant step toward self-sufficiency.
Prajnya Dhavde, a single mother from Yerwada, found inspiration in her daughter’s question, “Mom, why don’t you do something else?” Through the Non-Traditional Livelihood (NTL) program, she received soft skills training and became a Zomato delivery girl, earning ₹18,000 per month. The training boosted her confidence, enabling her to speak publicly for the first time.
Kirana Waghmare, a mother of four, faced familial responsibilities that once limited her options. With her husband’s support, she pursued security guard training and now earns ₹22,000 per month at Wardhaman. She encourages other women to believe in themselves, emphasizing that “you are not just a helpless woman; you are an empowered woman of today.”
Renuka More, from Janata Vasahat, overcame societal opposition when she chose to become an auto-rickshaw driver. She wanted to ensure a safe travel option for women, especially at night. Her journey symbolizes courage and perseverance, and she encourages other women to confidently identify and pursue their talents.
As part of the celebration, 18 women entrepreneurs exhibited their products, showcasing their contributions as mothers, businesswomen, and employees. Their efforts demonstrated the impact of economic empowerment and self-reliance among women.
Prominent citizens, including Dr. Santosh Salvi, Mr. Akshay Salve, well-known journalist Dilip Khurade, and social workers Pramod Gogwale and Smita Sode, attended the event, extending their support and encouragement.
The event was seamlessly facilitated by Priya Kothari, Board Member, YouthAid Foundation, Jyotsna Bahirat, Chief Operating Officer, Youthaid Foundation, and Swati Shirtar Program Manager, CYDA. The dedicated staff from YouthAid Foundation, CYDA, and YouthAid Global played a crucial role in making this celebration a grand success.
The International Women’s Day celebration at CreatiCity Mall was not just a commemoration but a testament to the power of economic empowerment, self-reliance, and breaking gender stereotypes. The event reinforced the belief that women, when given the right opportunities and encouragement, can thrive in any profession and lead a life of dignity and independence. The exhibition of women entrepreneurs continues to be there today from 11am to 8pm on Sunday the 9th March.
