Nisha (21) is a mother to her infant daughter and five-year-old son. Her husband is a migrant worker in India who supports them financially, leaving her responsible for housework and home farming with her mother-in-law. While other girls her age are figuring out what they want to do in life, or are still studying in universities, Manisha is saddled with two kids. One day, she thought that no change would ever come her way when she did not make it happen for herself. So despite her responsibilities, she pushed for a more dignified life by going back to school.

When we launched an Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) center in her area, Nisha immediately took the opportunity! Over eight months, she actively engaged in her studies and later participated in a two-month tailoring training session. During this training, Nisha acquired essential skills such as cutting, measuring, and sewing, and she quickly emerged as an eager learner, often seeking innovative approaches to her work. Not only did she catch up on her studies, but she also learned a valuable skill to increase her employability.

 

A woman stands outside a small wooden shop filled with neatly arranged toiletries and household items.
Nisha in front of her shop.

 

During the training, Nisha befriended two other trainees, and they established a small community tailoring shop. There, they don’t need to shell out a lot of money while increasing their income in this joint venture. She ran the business from home, earning a monthly income of NPR 10,000 (USD 70.7). Now confident to start newer ventures, she started selling cosmetics—earning NPR 500 (USD 3.5) daily.

Now with two sources of income, Nisha gained an unstoppable confidence. She now funds her children’s education and contributes to her household expenses. Her mother-in-law has also expressed pride in Nisha’s accomplishments, vowing to support her in her entrepreneurial journey. Because of ALP, she no longer has to solely rely on her husband for financial support. She extends her thanks to our organization for giving her an opportunity to improve her life despite her early marriage.

Looking ahead, our team remains committed to supporting Nisha and her peers. They will continue to provide follow-ups and facilitate connections with relevant stakeholders to enhance their livelihoods and explore further market opportunities, ensuring that the progress made is sustained and nurtured.

 


 

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