USHA Silai School Women's Journey To The Fashion Ramp

Since 2011, the USHA Silai School program has been transforming the lives of women in rural India. Over 1.4 million women have been trained in sewing and stitching, enabling them to create self-sustaining micro-enterprises. For many, this program has been a lifeline, helping them break free from poverty, achieve financial independence, and support their families and communities. The program's success lies in its holistic approach. Women from rural areas, often marginalized with limited earning opportunities, receive classical sewing training through a nine-day intensive workshop.This training led to the establishment of USHA Silai Schools, where women can refine their skills, earn an income, and eventually train others.

Ashutosh Chauhan, Deputy Manager of the USHA Silai School program shared,

Over 36,000 women have undergone classical training and set up Silai Schools. From there, we identify the best talents, provide ongoing training, and prepare them to become master trainers. These trainers also receive life skills training, including financial literacy and sanitation, empowering them to become leaders in their communities.

In a landmark initiative, ten master trainers were selected from across India to participate in the prestigious India Style Fashion Week. These women, who once stitched garments for villagers, showcased their original creations as designers on an international platform. Their journey, guided by mentors and USHA trainers, was marked by dedication and learning.

Mary Rupa Tete, a senior trainer said,

This journey from skilled artisans to designers has been challenging yet inspiring. These women represent true grit and determination.

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USHA brought together talent from across the country through a meticulous selection process. Women from Silai Schools to Master Trainers competed for the opportunity, and ten exceptional women were chosen. For the first time, these women stepped into the spotlight as designers, showcasing their unique creations and celebrating their transformation.

Ashutosh Chauhan, Deputy Manager, USS explained,

We invite women based on their skills. The best are selected and given platforms like India Style Fashion Week, Lakme Fashion Week, and East India Fashion Week to showcase their talent. With input from designers, we train them in pattern making, design development, and measurements, empowering them to excel on prestigious stages.

The transformation of these women into designers was supported by fashion designers Dr. Kapil Kishore and Sonia Jetleey, who mentored them online. From creating mood boards to understanding color balancing and pattern making, the women learned every step of the design process.

Dr. Kishore said,

The concept focused on festive seasons. We started by introducing the mood board and guided them step by step on how to create and arrange it. They learned color balancing and design elements. Once they understood, they selected and incorporated colors to bring their vision to life. The final collection beautifully captures the festive spirit.

For participants like Savita Thakur from Bihar and Ranjhna from Himachal Pradesh, this experience was a dream come true.

Savita said,

I never imagined I'd be here. Seeing my designs on models on such a grand stage feels surreal.

Ranjhna added,

I drew inspiration from temples, mountains, and nature to create my designs. From being a village woman whose work was overlooked, I've become someone whose creations are celebrated. It's a moment of pride and transformation.

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 The India Style Fashion Week in Gurgaon marked the culmination of months of hard work. Excitement filled the air as the final moments approached. Designers made last-minute adjustments, ensuring every garment fit perfectly. When the women's designs finally hit the ramp, it was a moment of triumph. Each step symbolized their courage, resilience, and determination.

For these women, this wasn't just a fashion show, it was a celebration of their journey from marginalized individuals to empowered designers. The event has been a turning point, inspiring participants to aim higher.

Ranjhna expressed her future aspirations,

I dream of taking my designs to platforms like Lakme Fashion Week and creating a brand that represents Himachal and India.

For USHA Silai School, this collaboration is a testament to their mission of empowering women.

Ashutosh Chauhan concluded,

We aim to popularize sewing and provide opportunities for marginalized women to showcase their talents. This is just the beginning.

The India Style Fashion Week wasn't just about showcasing designs. It was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the power of opportunity. These women have shown the world that with the right support, even the most distant dreams can come true.