Malkapuram

Our Journey:

Inspired by the vision of Fr. Wilhelm Meyer, the Social Apostolate at Malkapuram was initiated in 1994 under the dynamic leadership of Sr. Liboria. Moved by the hardships faced by local women, she mobilized them into Self-Help Groups (SHGs), laying a strong foundation for women’s empowerment and establishing the Navajyothi Mahila Seva Sangam. In 2016, this initiative evolved into the Navajyothi Mutually Aided Cooperative Thrift & Credit Society Ltd. What began as humble gatherings under trees has now grown into a powerful movement,providing shelter, support, and financial security to over 2,000 women through 150 active women’s groups.

Skill Training: Total of 1527 women were trained in various self-employment skills including the making of phenyl, fabric blue, candles, Vaseline, and detergent (surf). As a result of the training, many of these women have now started home-based businesses, generating income and contributing to their households. This initiative has empowered women to become self-reliant and confident entrepreneurs in their communities.

Capacity Building:  A total of 3879 women have participated in capacity building and leadership training programs. Through these programs, the women have developed the skills and confidence to take on leadership roles, manage groups and members, and empower themselves and others in their communities.

This initiative has played a key role in fostering self-confidence, responsibility, and sustainable community leadership among women.

Herbal Training:  A total of 2101 women received herbal training, where they learned to prepare and use herbal medicines and home remedies. Now, these women confidently use natural, home-based treatments for common ailments, promoting health and wellness within their families and communities.

Environmental training: A total of 2045 members received environmental awareness training focused on sustainable living practices.

As a result:

• Members have started kitchen gardens and now use organic vegetables in their daily cooking.
• They avoid plastic bags and have shifted to using eco-friendly cloth bags.
• Participants have also planted trees and interior plants, contributing to a greener environment.
• Additionally, they are actively working to reduce water wastage in their homes and communities.

Food & Nutrition: A total of 2169 women were trained in food and nutrition, including the preparation of pickles, papads, and other healthy homemade foods.

Now, these women:

Produce food items at home, contributing to household income.

Prepare nutritious meals for their children, helping to reduce malnutrition and anemia in their families.

Are more aware of healthy eating habits and the importance of balanced nutrition in daily life.

Beautician: A total of 1134 youth and women received training in beautician skills. As a result, some women have started their own beauty parlors, others have found employment in existing parlors, and some are applying their skills at home to reduce personal grooming expenses.

Women health: A total of 2751 women received training in yoga, acupressure, and related practices. By following the guidance provided, many women have experienced reduced stress and improved overall well-being.

Legal training: A total of 262 women received training, with around 30 of them trained as legal volunteers in court. These volunteers have actively contributed to resolving various legal cases.

Education: A total of 531 children attended our tuition centre. We supported 50 of them in continuing their further studies, while 33 school dropouts were enrolled and continued their education through an open university.

Domestic workers: A Domestic Worker Awareness Programme was successfully conducted with the participation of 125 domestic workers. The programme aimed to educate the workers about their rights, available support systems, and the benefits of union membership.

As a result of the programme:

50 workers joined the domestic workers’ union.

The newly joined members are actively following the rules and regulations of the union.

The programme contributed to raising awareness, strengthening unity among workers, and encouraging organized efforts for better working conditions.

Human trafficking: A Human Trafficking Awareness Programme was conducted with the active participation of 273 women. The programme focused on educating women about the dangers of human trafficking, preventive measures, and available support services.

Children programme: A total of 1013 children are actively involved in the Children’s Programme, which aims to promote child rights, safety, and overall development.

Highlights of the programme:

·       Awareness programmes were conducted in schools to educate children on important issues such as child rights, personal safety, and education.

·       The children are actively participating in all the activities and initiatives under the programme.

·       The engagement of children through school-based awareness sessions has strengthened their confidence and understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

Youth programme: The Youth Programme currently includes approximately 60 youth participants. The programme focuses on empowering young individuals through education, awareness, and leadership development.

Key activities and outcomes:

• • Awareness programmes were conducted for the youth, addressing topics such as career development, social responsibility, and legal rights.
  • The programme has extended its services to government colleges, helping reach a wider group of young people and build awareness at the institutional level.
  • As part of our ongoing efforts to support youth empowerment through education, we assisted 6 youth in pursuing the General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course.
  • 
    

Computer Education: A total of 350 youth and women were trained in computer skills. They are now employed in various sectors including schools, shopping malls, and companies."

Tailoring training: A total of 3,147 women were trained in tailoring. Some are now employed in Brandix companies, others have opened their own stitching shops, and some are working from home.

 Transgender programme: Sr. Sangeetha has started a new initiative program for the transgender community. There are 12 members in the group.

 Basic Information