She Never Gave Up-Case Study- SEED Project

Married off at an early age, dropped out of school, moved to a new city, but nothing deterred her. 

Ranju Omprakash Verma, living in Upadyay Nagar, M.I.D.C, a slum area of Andheri East is a beneficiary of the tailoring  course provided under SEED Project. Here’s her story-

Before marriage she resided in Sultanpur, U.P. Married at an early age of 15 years she was made to drop her education as it was not supported by her family leaving her desire to educate herself unaccomplished. She moved to Mumbai with her husband who works at Seepz in Andheri East as a supervisor making a monthly income of Rs.10,000. They have two adorable kids; one in the 2^nd Std and the other in Senior K.G.  Although she did continue her education post marriage but family responsibilities forced her to bid adieu to her dream.

One fine day, Mrs. Malti Chattri a tailoring trainer met Ranju and upon hearing of her story gave her information about Mumbai Smiles and its sewing course. As luck would have it, the course where it was conducted wasn’t even far from where she lived.  With hope filling her heart again she consulted her husband who agreed and there she was; enrolling for the tailoring course at the M.I. D.C. Centre. She became an active member of the program and even participated in other activities; like the Marol Marathon that was conducted  by us to complement our 10 year celebrations. She always showed a drive towards learning and decided it was time to get self employed.

She is now a tailoring teacher and also runs work from her home as well. She makes approximately Rs.3000-4000 per month. The confidence gained over her training helped her pursue her goals. Her husband supports her work and is happy about it. With her first salary she bought books for her daughter; a sign that goes to prove the bright future Ranju is building for her. This is a story about a girl who despite having to drop her education, being married off at an early age never gave up. She always knew she was meant to be more than a homemaker. It gives us immense pride to have been able to be a part of her journey. Congratulations Ranju, you did it!

This incredible story of pursuit to happiness was narrated to Mr. Kalidas Rote, Field Coordinator, SEED when he visited her house for a follow-up.