I am Urmila Maharjan, a resident of historical Kirtipur Municipality, Ward No. 3, originally from Samal Tole and currently living in Dhalpa Tole. I am a trainee in the six-month skill development and handicraft bag-making training organized by the Women Empowerment Training Centre.

I learned about this training through Facebook. Being a homemaker with numerous household responsibilities, I couldn’t manage time to participate in the nine-month training program. Later, I came to know about an opportunity to sew shopping bags for the municipality through a friend, Basanti, who was a trainee in the nine-month program. I participated in the project and, in the process, also filled out the form for this six-month training.

Before joining this training, I used to teach children at school and conduct adult literacy classes for women in my neighborhood. However, this training has opened a new chapter in my life. Here, I have learned not only handicraft skills but also personality development, the value of time, and professional knowledge. The trainers provide lessons in a very friendly and approachable manner, which has made learning enjoyable and effective for me.

During this training, I have created various designs of bags. These bags have been used as gifts for weddings, gatherings, and other events in my community. The training has encouraged me to move towards self-reliance and independence.

My goal is to expand the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from this training. I aspire to remain associated with the Women Empowerment Centre even after completing the program, teaching and inspiring other women. My dream is to empower women to become independent and to achieve significant milestones in their lives.

This journey of women’s empowerment is not just for me but a source of inspiration for my entire community. Thank you.