Unnati

Project Unnati is an initiative designed to transform rural communities by empowering women. Our approach is rooted in the belief that empowerment is a multifaceted journey, encompassing financial, social, and psychological aspects. Each of these dimensions is interconnected, creating a dynamic pathway towards comprehensive and sustainable empowerment.

Our Three Pillars of Empowerment:

Financial Empowerment:

At the heart of Project Unnati, financial empowerment is the first critical step. We provide access to financial resources, savings, and credit facilities, aiming to enhance economic capabilities and promote financial independence. This foundation empowers individuals to invest in essential aspects like education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, paving the way for broader empowerment.

Social Empowerment:

Progressing from financial independence, social empowerment strengthens community ties and nurtures a supportive environment. Through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), individuals engage in knowledge sharing and collective problem-solving, fostering solidarity and breaking down social barriers. This pillar transforms gender norms and enables equal participation in community decision-making processes.

Psychological Empowerment:

The final stage focuses on developing self-belief, confidence, and personal agency.

As individuals advance economically and socially, they experience a positive shift in their mental framework. Psychological empowerment is crucial, as it allows individuals to overcome limiting beliefs and societal constraints, unlocking their full potential.

Project Unnati envisions a world where women in rural communities are not just participants but active drivers of change. By navigating through these interconnected stages of empowerment, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive transformation, impacting individuals and communities alike. Join us in this journey of empowerment and sustainable change with Project Unnati.

Activities

Project Unnati is designed to empower women and young girls in rural communities through a range of targeted activities. Each activity is focused on nurturing independence, enhancing skills, and fostering a supportive environment for women. Here’s a breakdown of our core activities:

• Formation and Revival of Self-Help Groups (SHGs): We focus on creating new SHGs and revitalizing existing ones. These groups serve as platforms for collective saving, lending, and learning, fostering financial independence and community cohesion.
  

• Improving Livelihoods and Income-Generating Opportunities: Our initiatives include training in small-scale businesses and vocational skills. We aim to enhance women's participation in financial matters, elevating their economic status and decision-making power.
  

• Enhancing Knowledge and Strength Against Discrimination: We conduct workshops and sessions to educate women and girls about their rights. Our goal is to empower them to recognize and stand against all forms of discrimination and gender-based violence.
  

• Awareness about Constitutional Rights and Legal Systems: We provide information and guidance on constitutional rights and how to approach the legal system. This knowledge empowers women to seek justice and legal support when necessary.
  

• Adult Literacy Program: Understanding the importance of basic education, we offer reading and writing skills training. This program is aimed at enhancing personal empowerment and awareness, opening doors to new opportunities.
  

• Creating a Supportive Environment for Personal Development: Our activities are designed to provide a safe space for women and girls to build life skills. We encourage them to develop their voices, express opinions freely, and engage in community dialogues. Through these activities, Project Unnati strives to create a sustainable model of empowerment, where women are not just beneficiaries but active agents of change in their communities. Join us in this mission to uplift and transform lives with Project Unnati.
  

Alignment with SDGs

SDG 1: No Poverty

Project Unnati addresses SDG 1 by enhancing economic capabilities through financial resources, savings, and credit facilities. This financial empowerment helps alleviate poverty by enabling women to invest in education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, creating sustainable pathways out of poverty.

SDG 5: Gender Equality

The initiative directly contributes to achieving gender equality. By fostering financial and social empowerment, Project Unnati helps dismantle traditional gender roles, promoting equal opportunities and participation in decision-making processes at both the family and community levels.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Promoting financial independence and entrepreneurship aligns with SDG 8. Project Unnati enables women to engage in productive and profitable work, contributing to broader economic growth and the creation of quality jobs.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Through its inclusive approach, the project works towards reducing inequalities. It provides marginalized and rural women with access to resources and opportunities, bridging gaps in social and economic disparities.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Although focused on rural communities, Project Unnati's approach to developing sustainable, self-help communities contributes to the broader goal of sustainable urbanization, as empowered rural communities can lead to balanced regional development.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

By empowering women to be active participants and leaders in their communities, the project supports the creation of more inclusive societies, which is fundamental to fostering peaceful, just, and strong institutions.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The collaborative nature of Project Unnati, involving various stakeholders, exemplifies the essence of SDG 17. It demonstrates how partnerships can be a powerful tool in achieving all the SDGs, especially in the realm of gender equality and empowerment.

Endorsements

Vaishali Gopalbhai Gohil, Vadadla Village volunteer

"My involvement with Women SHGs has significantly boosted my self-esteem”!

In 2021, I started volunteering with ARCH to assist in forming and managing SHGs. Initially, I aided the ARCH team in gathering women for meetings and guided SHG members in aspects like bookkeeping, record maintenance, and internal lending. This experience boosted my confidence immensely. Now, I also contribute by spreading awareness about the Unnati Skill Centre, explaining its potential benefits to women in my village."

Anitaben Kishankumar Chauhan, SHG Member from Gangadiya

"Borrowing from the SHG is convenient and affordable”!

Previously, borrowing from villagers incurred 2% interest, costing me around Rs. 2500. Since our SHG initiated internal lending, borrowing has become more accessible and economical for me. Moreover, during our bank account setup, I understood the account-opening process and felt empowered after the visit."

Varliben Mukeshbhai Bhilala, SHG Member from Pratapnagar Village

"From confusion to leadership in group meetings”!

Engaging in SHG meetings and discussions energizes me. Initially, I was baffled by official banking procedures and documents like Aadhar cards, but Veenaben's consistent guidance resolved my doubts. Now, I'm confident enough to take leadership roles during meetings."

Shakunaben Jaswantbhai Solanki, SHG Member, Intolipura village

Moving Forward Towards Self-Reliance!

"I joined Jai Ganga Bhawani Sakhi Mandal on January 15th, 2023. Even though we've been a group for less than six months, our commitment to regular meetings and meticulous documentation led us to qualify for a revolving fund from NRLM. Receiving Rs. 30,000 as the revolving fund filled us with delight. Being part of the SHG has ushered in a multitude of benefits. I've gained insight into banking processes and even visited the bank, panchayat, and the taluka livelihood manager's office. Such exposure was beyond my expectations. We are all resolute to progress and achieve self-reliance, each one of us forging a unique identity along the way."

Vasava Karinaben Vijaybhai, Student at Skill Centre, Samlaya village

"I'll soon be embarking on my own business journey."

"Before joining the Unnati skill center for the sewing course, my stitching skills were basic. However, attending the classes consistently has transformed my capabilities. I've now mastered crafting bags, kids' clothes, blouses, and skirts. Additionally, I've enrolled in the beautician's course. As I continue to hone my skills and gather knowledge, I'm preparing to launch my own business venture."

Ramilaben Nayak, Skill Centre Student, Manokamna, Jarod

"I've found financial savings through stitching my own clothes."

"Moving from a small village to Jarod presented financial challenges, but I committed to paying the Rs. 50/- fee for the tailoring class. Initially lacking the confidence to stitch my own clothes, completing the course transformed me. I now not only create my garments but also fashion attire for my family. This self-sufficiency enables me to save money previously spent on outside tailoring. Furthermore, I've observed personal growth, experiencing heightened self-esteem and confidence. I've shed shyness, engaging with everyone at the center without reservation."

Participant of MHM Workshop, Samlaya village

"My daughter reached 17 years without experiencing menstruation, which concerned me greatly. Although I held onto hope, I hadn't taken any concrete steps. Attending the MHM workshop alongside my daughter was enlightening. The trainer's counsel prompted us to seek medical advice to ensure no underlying health concerns. Acting on this, we visited a hospital and uncovered the root cause of the issue. Prompted by the workshop, we initiated the necessary treatment."

Tulcha Kunvar, SHG Member under Unnati ki Shakti

“This income will help me suffice for my household expense”

“We received the material to make rakhis, I will use this material and prepare the rakhis which would in turn help me earn an income to suffice my basic household expenses."