Who Are the MarketPlace India Artisans?
- Most artisans come from rural villages with limited education, and entered arranged marriages, relocating to Mumbai with few skills, resources, or support systems.
- Financial independence was rare, with husbands typically controlling household decisions, bank accounts, and savings.
- They often had no prior work experience—especially not in sewing—and had never earned their own income. Today as Co-operative members, many are working outside the home for the first time, managing their own finances, and investing in their children’s education, including their daughters.
- Now organized into 11 artisan-run cooperatives, the women gain confidence and pride through shared ownership, leadership, and business responsibility.
- Over time these cooperatives have become strong, supportive communities, places where women share challenges, celebrate achievements, and help one another navigate family and social issues.
- Through enrichment programs like yoga, newspaper readings, and workshops on finance, rights, and child development, they grow personally and socially.
Programs for Women Artisans
- Self-Development Sessions on topics like conflict resolution, gender equality, mental health, and nutrition
- Community Action Projects, such as the artisan-led renovation of a public toilet
- Training in Cooperative Management, leadership, and decision-making
- Financial Literacy and Group Savings Clubs
- Health Insurance, health surveys, and regular clinics
- One-on-One Counseling and Group Therapy with trained mental health professionals
- Yoga Classes to support physical and mental well-being
- Current Events Reading Groups for awareness and discussion
- Environmental Initiatives, including recycling and plastic collection
- Celebrations such as Artisan Day, International Women’s Day, picnics, and more
Programs for the Artisans’ Children
- The Armaan Club is a children’s education and development program created by the artisans’ cooperatives. It offers a supportive environment where children can learn, explore, and build the confidence to shape their own futures.
- Academic Support with tutoring, school performance tracking, and home visits.
- Life Skills Sessions to build confidence and resilience.
- Creative Activities including art, dance, theatre, and judo.
- Education for Life Center offering access to computers, toy libraries, and play-based learning.
- Career Guidance, from aptitude testing and field selection to counseling, vocational courses, internships, and job placement.