Santosini: September Story of Empowerment

Meet Santosini Sika, our September 2022 Story of Empowerment. 

Santosini lives in Behera Pali, Odisha with her husband, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law. Her husband is a painter and works as the sole provider for the family. Day-to-day, Santosini’s family struggles to get by. She says that she lives in constant tension worrying about how they will make ends meet for yet another day. Life isn’t easy for Santosini. 

One day, her sister-in-law told her about the One Life Movement tailoring center. Upon learning about the tailoring center, Santosini was so excited to join and learn a new skill for her to use to help provide for the family. She asked her family if she could join the tailoring program, and they readily agreed. 

Even though she was nervous to start something new, Santosini joined the tailoring program at the beginning of March of this year. Over time, she says she has become more bold and confident because of the tailoring program. At first, Santosini didn’t even know how to work a sewing machine, but now, thanks to the help and guidance of the tailoring teachers, Santosini knows how to stitch all kinds of pants and blouses. 

In the words of Santosini, the OLM tailoring program has changed her life for the better. She is now able to help her family financially because of the tailoring skills she has learned. Santosini has emphasized over and over again her gratitude for One Life Movement. 

“Because of this tailoring center,” she says, “we ladies are able to stand on our own feet and be self-reliant.” The OLM tailoring center helps so many women just like Santosini achieve the financial independence they’ve always dreamed of. To help us continue to support the lives of women and families in need, join us by donating today.