The Empowering Journey Of Sanjay Vidyarthi And USHA Silai School

From the arid landscapes of Gujarat to the bustling corporate hubs of Gurugram, Sanjay Vidyarthi's journey epitomizes a transition from corporate success to social impact. In 2018, Vidyarthi left the corporate world to embark on a mission of personal social responsibility, launching "Bharat to India Connect," a self-funded initiative aimed at uplifting rural India.

Sanjay Vidyarthi said,

"One of the very significant problems India faces is livelihood generation.”

Recognizing the crucial role of empowering women in villages, his initiative focuses on equipping them with skills that enable economic independence. The collaboration with Usha Silai School became a natural step in this direction, as the school was already working to skill women and enable them to earn a living within their villages. This partnership led to the establishment of production centers in Rajasthan and further expanded into other states.

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Sanjay and his wife Shruti have been instrumental in supporting women at USHA Silai School, enhancing their efficiency and broadening their earning potential. In the past year, with the help of family and friends, the Vidyarthis have sponsored 102 women across 102 villages in 11 states, providing sewing machines, steam irons, and other necessary equipment. This initiative has significantly impacted the lives of these women, giving them the tools to improve their craftsmanship and increase their income.

Shruti Vidyarthi said,

"It's very encouraging to see how many of these women are not only developing strong entrepreneurship skills but are also continuously enhancing their abilities. Thanks to USHA's regular programs, which offer new and more advanced training every few months, they have the opportunity to learn more intricate and refined techniques. It's heartening to witness some of these women collaborating with renowned designers, and even participating in prestigious events like the Lakme Fashion Week. I am immensely proud of the work USHA is doing to support and uplift these women."

Gulafsha Parveen is a shining example of the impact of the USHA Silai School program. Initially sewing clothes for neighbors, she was introduced to the school through an NGO officer. After a nine-day training, she received a sewing machine, a certificate, and a handbook, setting her on a path of growth. She has since trained 40-45 girls, earning a substantial income, and her skills have opened doors to fashion opportunities, including making dresses for India Style Fashion Week.

Gulafsha said,

"I was in my in-laws' village, sewing clothes for neighbors, when an NGO officer noticed my work and suggested I could improve my skills. That's how I joined USHA Silai School. After 9 days of training, I got a sewing machine and a certificate. Back home, I trained 40-45 girls, earning ₹3000-4000 a month."

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Gulafsha's dedication and hard work have made her a role model in her community. Her participation in India Style Fashion Week, where she and her students created 15 dresses in just six days, marks a significant achievement. Reflecting on her journey, Gulafsha remarks on the unexpected yet fulfilling reality of her success.

Gulafsha further added,

"I recently got the chance to sew dresses for models at India Style Fashion Week. My students and I worked day and night to create 15 dresses in just six days. I never imagined I would get such an opportunity, but it happened, and I'm thrilled that it all came together perfectly."

The story of Sanjay and Shruti Vidyarthi, alongside the achievements of women like Gulafsha, underscores the profound impact of empowering rural women through skill development. By fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance, initiatives like Bharat to India Connect and USHA Silai School are not only transforming individual lives but are also paving the way for sustainable rural development.