From Homemaker to Entrepreneur: Krithika’s Journey of Resilience and Success
My name is Krithika, and I am 29 years old. My life took a traditional path when my parents arranged my marriage right after I completed my schooling. At the age of 19, I got married, and soon after, I became a mother. With household responsibilities and raising my child, I had no opportunity to pursue higher education. I had once dreamed of completing a degree through distance education, but due to health complications, I was hospitalized and had to focus on recovery. This setback left me feeling like I had no future beyond my home.
However, life had other plans for me. On my son’s birthday, I decided to make homemade chocolates for the first time, and to my surprise, they turned out exceptionally well. This small success reignited a spark in me. A few months later, with the guidance of ARUWYE, I joined the Selva Magal Women Self-Help Group, where I connected with many women who, like me, were looking for ways to build their own identity.
Determined to move forward, I enrolled in a baking course and began taking small orders within my family circle. I started making cookies, brownies, and cakes using a mix of millets and refined flour. Slowly, my passion turned into a source of income, giving me the confidence I had never felt before. But I didn’t stop there!
With the continued support of the women’s self-help group and ARUWYE staff, I started receiving more orders and was given opportunities to set up stalls at various events. Through these experiences, I learned marketing and business strategies that helped expand my small venture.
Eager to grow even further, I explored new skills and discovered Ari work classes at ARUWYE, offered at an affordable cost. At the same time, I joined ARUWYE’s Career Connect Program, which transformed my perspective on life. Through these sessions, I developed confidence, learned interview skills, and mastered marketing techniques.
Today, I am not just a homemaker—I am an entrepreneur with a growing baking business. What once seemed impossible has now become my reality. My journey from self-doubt to self-reliance is proof that no dream is too big and no setback is permanent. Thanks to the unwavering support of ARUWYE and the Selva Magal Women Self-Help Group, I have found my purpose and financial independence.
To all the women out there who feel stuck—believes in yourself, take that first step, and embrace the opportunities around you. If I can do it, so can you!
Selvamagal Self-Help Group: A Journey towards Empowerment
In Kodambakkam, Aruwye has formed the Selvamagal Self-Help Group, consisting of 16 determined women, all of whom were once entirely dependent on their husbands. Today, they are on a path toward financial independence and self-reliance.
I am Bakiyalakshmi, a mother of two children. I am 33 years old and have been married for 15 years. From the day of my marriage, I relied entirely on my husband for all our family’s needs. Though I had a deep interest in sewing and tailoring, my skills were limited. I tried learning by watching YouTube videos and managed to stitch clothes for myself, but I lacked the confidence and expertise to sew for others professionally.
Through the Selvamagal Self-Help Group, I learned about the tailoring and Aari embroidery training classes offered by Aruwye. The idea of enhancing my skills excited me, but my family was initially skeptical. They doubted whether I could successfully complete the course and turn my passion into a source of income. However, I remained persistent. I continuously expressed my desire to upgrade my skills and proved my dedication
Eventually, my family recognized my determination and allowed me to enroll in the tailoring and Aari work classes at Aruwye, which were offered at an affordable cost. With great enthusiasm, I joined the program and diligently learned the art of Aari embroidery and professional tailoring under expert guidance. Upon completing the training, I received a certification from an Aruwye trainer, marking the beginning of my transformation.
As my skills improved, so did my family’s faith in me. They started believing in my ability to contribute financially. We even made plans to purchase a new sewing machine once my elder son completed his 10th grade. Through the Selvamagal Self-Help Group, I also accessed a loan to start my own tailoring and Aari work business. I began taking small orders, stitching clothes for friends and relatives. Gradually, my customer base expanded, and for the first time in my life, I started earning money.
Before joining this group, I had never earned a single rupee or financially supported my family. But today, I contribute to my children’s education fees and help meet my family’s needs. The journey from being financially dependent to becoming self-reliant has not only empowered me but has also instilled confidence and courage in my life.
I am deeply grateful to Aruwye for being the driving force behind this transformation. Without their support, guidance, and encouragement, this journey would not have been possible. They have given me the strength to believe in myself and the confidence to build a better future for my family.
