A. Ilankeshwari is a member of the Vasantham self-help group (SHG) in Subramaniapuram, Tiruchy. Through a poverty alleviation programme to help women generate income through organic farming, Ilankeshwari started a vegetable shop. As a woman, she says it was very difficult to manage the shop at first; but she felt empowered by the many trainings she received from Vembu, the Don Bosco Network partner organization.

She learned about marketing strategies, business management, leadership qualities etc. which helped her to run the shop well. She now earns Rs. 1000 per month. She says, “I am able to supplement my family income. I am happy and my family members also are very happy regarding my status as an earning member.”