At ASSCOD, empowering rural women is at the heart of our mission. Recently, we embarked on a challenging yet rewarding initiative to organize a three-day residential leadership immersion program for five remarkable rural women leaders of Wings to Fly Trust in Chennai. This transformative experience was made possible through deep grassroots engagement and support from the Omega Forum for Social Impact (OFSI). It offered these women an opportunity to grow, learn, and showcase their leadership qualities alongside participants from five NGOs across South India.
Day 1: Bridging Diversity and Gender Sensitivity
The first day of the leadership immersion program was all about fostering connections and understanding. Activities were designed to break the ice and help participants build bridges across diverse backgrounds. The sessions on gender sensitivity encouraged introspection and highlighted the importance of mutual respect and inclusivity. The training, held at the inspiring Dakshina Chitra heritage museum, provided a culturally rich environment that added depth to the learning experience. The day ended on a joyous note with music and dance, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere that united the participants.
Day 2: Health Awareness and Emotional Sharing
Day two began with a rejuvenating yoga session, helping participants centre themselves for the day’s activities. The sessions covered crucial topics such as menstrual hygiene and breaking the myths of sexual relationships. Participants shared personal stories, creating a supportive environment where emotions flowed freely, and bonds deepened. A guided tour of Dakshina Chitra, led by the insightful Ms. Anitha, was a highlight, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in every exhibit. The day concluded with a joyous celebration of music and dance, leaving participants with a sense of relief.
Day 3: Goal Setting and Farewells
The final day began with a much-anticipated visit to the nearby beach, fulfilling a long-held dream for many participants. The serene setting energized the women for the day’s key session on strategic goal setting. This session equipped them with tools to translate their aspirations into actionable plans. The program concluded with a heartfelt certification ceremony, where each participant received curated gifts and, more importantly, a treasure trove of memories. Saying goodbye was bittersweet, but the women departed with renewed confidence and a sense of purpose.
A Transformative Experience
This leadership immersion program was not just an event but a turning point for these women. It allowed them to step out of their daily routines, experience personal growth, and recognize their potential as leaders in their communities. The experience was as enriching for ASSCOD as it was for the participants, reaffirming our belief in the power of community-driven change.
Acknowledgments
We extend our deepest gratitude to OFSI for their invaluable support in making this initiative a reality. Their commitment to creating spaces for rural empowerment is a beacon of hope for communities striving for a better future. Together, we are taking significant steps toward building stronger, more self-reliant communities.
Stay tuned for more stories of transformation and empowerment from ASSCOD!