The Women of Kochi
Why is the collective important?
The situation of Keralan women has been shaped heavily by its traditional culture, colonial history and post-independence policies. It is no secret that gender stereotypes adversely impact women, particularly in rural communities of developing countries like India. Women here continue to be seen as “dependent wives” or “supplementary earners” at best. Traditional familial responsibilities of a woman, especially as a mother/wife/homemaker, constrain them in their choice of employment, as do her family’s and society’s attitudes towards certain types of employment.
Most women in Kerala are literate in Malayalam and whilst there is a high percentage of highly
‘qualified’ or ‘educated’ women there is relatively little space for women in leadership and
empowered roles. In Kerala, especially in the lower strata of society, women sense alienation
and insecurity that comes in the midst of economic growth, increasing disintegration of
community/family spaces, saturation of ‘secular’ dreams, and an increasing sense of social,
economic and political insecurity.
The Devi Collective, founded by the Volunteering Journeys Team, supports women in Kochi by providing free skills training. Our goal is to help local women gain financial independence through tailoring and business skills. This helps them earn a living and build a better future for themselves and their families.
Donate Today
Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of the local women we serve. With your help, we can continue to provide vital services and support to empower women who rely on these programs. Every little bit helps, so please consider making a donation today.
the team of women who lead the Devi Women's Collective
Ridhi
Nowfiya
Nowfiya
With over 15 years infield experience working with community development, she is the director for all the women's empowerment programs and guides volunteers and staff to advance the program.
Nowfiya
Nowfiya
Nowfiya
She is a highly skilled creative who teaches the Devi women embroidery and crocheting skills. She is also an experienced master tailor and runs her own tailoring business.
Famidha
Nowfiya
Famidha
She is a passionate advocate for Women's Empowerment and instrumental in program development for our spoken English and computer literacy classes. She also initiated the Tailoring Skills program for the Devi Collective.