A Decade of Transformation: Saroj Namdev's Story Of Sewing Dreams

A decade ago, USHA Silai Schools were born, sowing the seeds of empowerment for women across India. Today, we celebrate a decade of transformation, showcasing the extraordinary journeys of pioneers like Saroj Namdev. In 2012, Saroj, from Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, joined the USHA Silai School program, transforming her life and those around her.

Reflecting on her struggles, she said,

Our financial situation was very bad before 2012. Our three children would keep falling ill, and we couldn't even get proper medical treatment for them. Our jobs also did not work out well. We would work for 8 days but could hardly make any money.

Saroj attended a 7-day training in Gaurganj that changed everything. She said,

We had a 7-day training in Gaurganj. We had been asked to come for it, so everyone came to learn. During the 7-day training in Gaurganj, I learned everything. I didn't know how to sew before, but I kept practicing. Ma'am taught me sewing in 7 days. Every day we would make something new. By learning how to make different things, eventually, I started sewing really well. Then I started teaching sewing also.

Over the past decade, she has trained over 250 women, with 50 of them starting their own tailoring businesses. Saroj's school became a hub for women to acquire practical skills and dream bigger.

Usha Silai School Program Creating An Impact Beyond Economic: IIT-Delhi Impact Assessment Report

Saroj said,

I also taught my daughter-in-law how to sew, and even got her a diploma. She is also teaching other women how to sew, and is also working. So, she says she will raise her children to work and progress like me in the future.

With her daughter-in-law managing the school, Saroj expanded her focus to a boutique in the local market, earning Rs. 25,000 monthly. Her income has helped her achieve milestones she once thought impossible.

Saroj proudly said,

It's been 12 years since I started working. In these 12 years I have bought 4 small cars. I gifted one car to my daughter for her wedding, two to my sons and one to my husband.

Saroj's impact extends beyond her family. Uma, one of her trainees, found purpose and independence through the Silai School.

Alok Tripathi, Programme Coordinator at USHA Social Services, remarked,

It was our mission at USHA to develop women as leaders, as decision makers, and as change agents. Saroj is a very good example of our mission, because she is fulfilling our goals.

Even a decade later, USHA remains a constant presence, offering mentoring, additional training, and resources to help women like Saroj adapt to new trends and challenges. This support comes through diverse initiatives tailored to their evolving needs.

Usha And Army Wives Welfare Association Transforming Lives Through Vocational Training

Saroj's husband, Chandrabhushan Namdev, expressed his pride, he said,

I feel very proud of her. She has taught sewing to many people. She has helped women open their own silai schools, and their own shops, and do well. We are twice as good now as compared to earlier.

For Saroj, the recognition she receives is deeply rewarding,

I feel very good. Wherever I go, people address me as 'madam'. Saroj will always remain Saroj, but the situation has changed a lot. Now I have gone from being Saroj to being addressed as Madam, that is an achievement in itself.

As USHA Silai Schools celebrate a decade, Saroj's journey exemplifies the power of opportunity and persistence, proving that one small step can change countless lives.