Urmila comes from a small village in North India. She belongs to the shepherd community, part of the Scheduled Caste (SC) system—one of the most marginalized groups in Indian society. Though she managed to study up to the 12th grade, life has been extremely hard. She and her husband, Devchand, work as daily-wage laborers. But work is scarce, the pay is meagre, and providing for their five children—two sons and three daughters—has always been a struggle.
To make matters worse, much of her husband’s small earnings are wasted on alcohol. This left Urmila to carry the heavy burden of feeding, educating, and raising their children alone. The crushing weight of responsibility, poverty, and loneliness drove her into deep depression. In her darkest moments, she even attempted to end her life—twice. Somehow, she survived. But the pain and hopelessness were overwhelming.
It was during this valley of despair that Urmila heard about one of our tailoring centers. With courage, she decided to join. From the first day, her teacher—who comes from the same village—took her under her wing, encouraging her, praying for her, and sharing words of hope from the Bible.
Something began to change inside Urmila.
- The sewing machine became more than just a tool—it was a symbol of possibility.
- The classroom became more than just a space—it was a safe place of encouragement and dignity.
- The training became more than just a skill—it was the beginning of a new life.
Urmila proved to be sincere, hardworking, and eager to learn. Step by step, her confidence returned. The hopeless woman who once thought her life had no value began to believe she could stand on her own feet again.
She not only completed the basic course but also qualified for our Advanced Training Program, where she has emerged as one of our best students. Her teacher proudly calls her the “best student.” Today, Urmila has also started praying and opening her heart to faith.
Thanks to the support of Global Helps, Urmila has received a sewing machine of her own. With this, she has started her own small business where she stitches clothes and earns a good income. She is also learning new designs and patterns to make her work more creative, profitable, and sustainable. Her small enterprise is not just helping her family survive—it is helping them thrive.
Why Her Story Matters
Urmila’s journey is a powerful reminder that transformation doesn’t begin with wealth or privilege. It begins when someone believes in you, invests in you, and gives you a chance.
- A woman who once thought of ending her life is now full of new hope.
- A mother who carried unbearable burdens is now providing for her children with dignity.
- A life once trapped in despair is now stitching together a future filled with possibility.
When you empower one woman like Urmila, you are not only changing her story—you are changing the story of her children, her family, and her entire community.
This is the impact your partnership makes possible.