Jaya, a 43-year-old woman, faced immense challenges after the sudden passing of her husband four years ago. Living in a rental house with her two children, she had never worked before, as her life was dedicated to her family. Fortunately, her children had completed their studies and were earning for themselves, but Jaya was left in a state of uncertainty, unsure of how to move forward in life.
Though she possessed skills in beautician work, she lacked the confidence and support to turn it into a livelihood. It was during this difficult phase that ARUWYE-Mariyalaya coordinators reached out to her and introduced her to the Megam Women Self-Help Group. Through this group, Jaya found not only guidance and encouragement but also a community of women who shared similar struggles and aspirations.
Joining the self-help group proved to be a turning point in Jaya’s life. With the collective support and financial assistance from the group’s savings, she was able to secure a loan. This financial aid helped her set up her own beauty parlour, transforming her long-standing skill into a stable source of income. More than just a business, her parlor became a symbol of her resilience and newfound independence.
Today, Jaya stands as an inspiration to many women who face similar hardships. Through determination and the support of ARUWYE-Mariyalaya, she has rebuilt her life and regained her confidence. She continues to work alongside other women, proving that with the right support system, anyone can rise from adversity and achieve self-sufficiency.
Her story is a testament to the power of women’s empowerment and the impact of self-help groups in transforming lives.
