“The role of women in the development of society is of utmost importance. In fact, it is the only thing that determines whether a society is strong and harmonious, or otherwise. Women are the backbone of society.”
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s unique Women’s Empowerment Program, provides vocational training, micro-finance venture incentives, self-development workshops, and self-help groups for disadvantaged women across the world. The program was launched in 1985 in Bangalore, India, as VISTA India (Value Integrated Services to All).
- Rural women reached through different initiatives: Over 111,000
- Self-Help Groups formed in the areas of food processing, bag making, tailoring and embroidery, agarbatti rolling and arecanut plate making: Over 623
- Project “Pavitra” for menstrual health and hygiene: Over 115,800 girls across India, Nepal, Cambodia, Bhutan and Africa benefited through various workshops conducted by more than 5,910 trainers
- Project “Shakti”: Over 704 women trained since 2023 in this new initiative aimed at empowering women by honing their entrepreneurial spirit and providing a holistic way to financial independence.
Inspired by the project’s success, the program was replicated in other parts of India, and other countries including Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Iraq.