By Shivkumar Sharma | Project Leader
During this quarter, the Sustainable Livelihoods Programme continued empowering persons with deafblindness and multiple disabilities through vocational training, livelihood support, and skill development. Working closely with families and partner organisations, the programme enabled individuals to build confidence, develop employable skills, and achieve financial independence.
One inspiring example is Athira, a 24-year-old woman from Alappuzha, Kerala, living with multiple disabilities, including vision loss and locomotor disability. Athira's life changed when her father,thefamily'sonlyearningmember, became seriously ill. The resulting financial crisis forced her to discontinue her education. With limited mobility, no livelihood opportunities, and complete dependence on her family, Athira lacked the confidence and resources to pursue an independent future. Her family believed she would never be able to work or travel independently.
Athira was identified through an Anganwadi outreach programme and enrolled in a livelihood intervention supported by Sense International India and its partners. She received family counselling, vocational training in coir-making, livelihood support to establish a petty shop, and a laptop with digital skills training. Continuous mentoring helped her build confidence, strengthen her vocational skills, and prepare for employment.
Today, Athira works at the Ashraya Akshaya Centre in Alappuzha, providing digital and e-service support while continuing her coir-making activities. She now earns a regular income, contributes to her family's expenses, and has regained the confidence to travel independently and make decisions about her future. She has also resumed her education and aspires to secure a government job.
Athira's transformation has changed not only her own life but also her family's perception of her abilities. She has become a role model in her community, demonstrating that with the right opportunities and support, persons with disabilities can build sustainable livelihoods and lead independent, dignified lives.
Thanks to GlobalGiving and the continued support received from donors like you and your continued encouragement, many more deafblind adults across India will be able to stitch their way toward dignity, confidence, and financial independence.
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