This year we received a generous grant from the Circle of Sisterhood, a non-profit organization that raises money to remove barriers and provide educational opportunities for women & girls around the world. As you know, education is a central aspect of our artisan program and we were more than thrilled to be able to strengthen the quality of our workshops, offer them more frequently & help Anchal artisans create a sustainable future.
Last month we were able to witness the funds in action!
49 artisans attended an educational workshop that focused on financial literacy. Our goal was to enhance knowledge about finance, give instructions on how to deal with day-to-day expenditures and improve budgeting & saving skills. The workshop featured a retired banker who assessed the artisan's current knowledge and developed a curriculum covering topics like earning, borrowing, spending and saving. The lecture was followed by group discussions, hypothetical scenarios, and was encouraging of hands-on involvement and questions.
Anchal artisan's reported that that most valuable information was centered around building a saving's account and differentiating between want and need. They learned how to make smart investments & set realistic financial goals. After the workshop many noted that knowledge of financial planning allowed them to further help their families and elevate them from poverty. Others added that it will allow them to be independent, confident, and return home proudly. All of the women are excited to channel their education into something great.
Neeta, now a senior artisan, is a powerful example of the impact that the workshops can have. Last year we watched her turn her knowledge of budgeting and saving into a new home, where she leads a happy and healthy life. We know there are equally great things in store for the other artisans and we can't wait to see what's next.
We are so proud to be working with Circle of Sisterhood and create lasting changes together.
Click here to design change with us! -Tess