From Struggle to Strength

Sandhaya's story

Sandhaya’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of women and the transformative power of community-based support. With the right tools, knowledge, and opportunities, she didn’t just uplift her own life—she became a source of strength and guidance for others.

When women are empowered, entire communities rise.

Beneficiary Name: Sandhaya

Location: Nagahapathana, Viyadiguna, Badulla

Programme: Women’s Empowerment Initiative

Focus Areas: Sewing & Handcrafts, Livelihood Development, Gender Equality, SHG Leadership

Rising from Hardship in Nagahapathana

In the rural village of Nagahapathana in Viyadiguna, Badulla, Sandhaya’s life was once marked by hardship and isolation. With a husband struggling with alcoholism and unable to support the family, she became the sole provider for her children.

She stitched together a living with odd jobs, sewing, and knitting—but her income was barely enough. Trapped in a cycle of poverty and silence, Sandhaya had little knowledge of her rights or access to support.

A Turning Point: Joining the Women’s Empowerment Programme

That began to change in May 2021, when Sandhaya joined a community-based women’s empowerment initiative. Through this programme, she became part of a Self-Help Group (SHG) led by committed facilitators. It was her first safe space—a place to share, learn, and grow.

Through this platform, she received training in:

• Parenting and child protection

• Gender equality and legal rights

• Accessing government services

• Personal development and confidence-building

These sessions were life-changing, helping her regain confidence, understand her rights, and recognise her strength.

Turning Skill into Sustainable Income

Sandhaya’s natural talent for sewing and handcrafts was further nurtured by the programme. She received a sewing machine, transforming a slow, laborious process into a productive livelihood.

She now crafts and sells handmade doormats, bags, and other popular products—highly sought after in the local market.

Her income steadily grew, and so did her dreams.

Building a Brighter Future

With her rising income, Sandhaya began constructing a new brick-and-cement home, moving out of a humble clay structure. Refusing to rely on a single income source, she expanded her work to include:

• Ornamental flower cultivation

• Artificial flower-based crafts

These additional ventures not only diversified her earnings but also increased her financial security and independence.

A Leader in Her Community

“I found my voice and now I help others find theirs.” – Sandhaya

Today, Sandhaya is more than a provider—she is a mentor, a changemaker, and a leader. She shares her experiences with fellow beneficiaries, teaching them about:

• Entrepreneurship

• Skill development

• Personal empowerment

Her social and economic status has transformed entirely. She now lives with dignity, stability, and purpose—earning the admiration of her entire village.