About the Project

Project SAKHI (Skilling Advocacy and Knowledge for Hope Initiative) was founded in August 2024 with the aim of creating sustainable employment for women from underserved communities, especially in the context of crafts and weaving industries in India. 

To this end, we have developed a three-dimensional strategy. Our first step was to focus on raising awareness on the challenges faced by working women in the country, and the essential role they play in our economy. The Women at Work article series delves into the intersections of gender and employment in India, with in-depth analysis of women’s lived experiences in the workforce and the impact of empowerment initiatives. We have also launched a podcast that explores challenges and successes of large-scale skilling programs, featuring insights from industry experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

The centerpiece of Project SAKHI is the Skills for Success Skilling Certification, a comprehensive training program designed to empower women by bolstering their skillset and equipping them with the tools to create market-ready products. This included sessions led by experts, culminating in a final project and certification, so that participants can confidently step into formal employment or entrepreneurship after completing the program.

Furthermore, we have also set up the SAKHI Marketplace, where women trained through the certification program can find avenues to sell their handcrafted products and have an additional source of income. Through these multifaceted efforts, Project SAKHI works towards a singular goal, that of empowering women in underserved communities to access safe and sustainable employment and achieve financial independence in the long run.