In the serene village of Joshpur, nestled amidst lush fields, lived Joshna Kumbhakar, a simple rural housewife with big dreams but limited means. Her days were once consumed with household chores and family responsibilities, yet her heart yearned for something more—a desire to carve her own path and support her family financially.

Joshna’s turning point came when the FINISH Society, with support from MPL, introduced skill development training in the village. With encouragement from her SHG group, Ram Self-Help Group, she decided to take a leap of faith.

“आप जब अपने आप पर विश्वास करते हैं, तो कुछ भी असंभव नहीं है,”

Joshna often reminded herself, drawing strength from her newfound determination.

She eagerly enrolled in training sessions that taught her to make phenyl, bangles, and soft toys. Despite initial challenges, Joshna’s perseverance paid off. Her hands, once accustomed to household work, now skillfully crafted colorful bangles and adorable toys. The training sparked an entrepreneurial fire in her, and with a small amount of capital and a loan from her SHG, Joshna opened a modest stationary shop.

The early days of running her shop were tough. Joshna juggled her responsibilities at home and at the shop, often working late into the night to make additional products to sell. However, her hard work and friendly nature gradually built a loyal customer base. Children flocked to her shop for stationery, while women admired her handmade bangles and toys.

With her earnings, Joshna expanded her shop and diversified her products. She gained financial independence, a sense of pride, and, most importantly, respect in her community. Other women in the village started looking up to her as an inspiration. They would visit her shop not only to buy goods but also to learn from her experiences.

“जब मैंने शुरुआत की, मुझे भी डर लगा था। पर अगर मैं कर सकती हूं, तो आप सब भी कर सकती हैं,”

Joshna would tell them, urging them to dream big and take the first step. She began teaching her skills to others, creating a ripple effect of empowerment in Joshpur.

Today, Joshna’s shop stands as a testament to her resilience. It is more than just a business; it is a symbol of transformation and hope. With her earnings, she has improved her family’s living standards and is even able to save for her children’s future.

Joshna Kumbhakar’s journey, from a housewife to a successful entrepreneur, exemplifies the power of skill training and microfinance in empowering rural women. Her story is a beacon of hope, proving that with determination and the right support, even the most humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary success.

Joshna is forever grateful to the FINISH Society and MPL for their guidance and support. As she puts it, “सपने देखो, मेहनत करो, और अपने आप पर विश्वास रखो। सफलता आपके कदम चूमेगी।”