In just over two weeks the Project Help Team will host the SHINE Women’s Empowerment Conference in Punjab. We are very excited about the program that has been planned and we anticipate having a very powerful and special day, shared with about 500 delegates.
For India, our SHINE Conferences are unique and ground-breaking events, aiming to address the significant challenges that women face in local villages and slums. Life for many women in these communities is fraught with obstacles such as illiteracy, financial dependency, gender inequality, domestic violence, the alcohol and substance abuse of the husband and a lack of access to basic necessities like clean water, healthcare, and sanitation. These issues, combined with societal norms and discrimination, often leave women vulnerable and without a voice. Our SHINE Conference is dedicated to breaking this cycle of oppression and empowering women to take control of their own futures.
In Punjab, many women are trapped in a cycle of poverty, illiteracy, and subjugation, which is further exacerbated by long-standing traditions like the dowry system. Families celebrate the birth of a boy but lament the birth of a girl, as she is often viewed as a financial burden due to dowry obligations and the limited opportunities afforded to women. This ingrained gender bias continues throughout a woman’s life, impacting her education, safety, and overall quality of life. Many women lack the skills or opportunities to support themselves, leaving them dependent on their families or spouses. Without access to education or vocational training, these women are trapped in a life where their potential remains unfulfilled.
Our SHINE conference is designed to disrupt this status quo. Through a series of talks across the day, the women (and quite a few men too) will gain valuable knowledge about their rights, personal safety, financial independence, and the importance of psychological empowerment. The conference will also address crucial issues such as domestic violence, gender-based discrimination, and the stigma surrounding violence against women. By equipping women with the knowledge and skills they need to break free from oppressive cycles, SHINE aims to foster resilience, self-sufficiency, and confidence. We also seek to educate community leaders (who have been invited to attend) making them both aware and accountable for providing resources and support to local women.
Ultimately, SHINE’s goal is to empower women not only to change their own lives but also to inspire and educate future generations about women’s rights and the power of self-advocacy. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for women in Punjab and across India.
We cannot do this alone - can you support us?
The success of the SHINE Women’s Empowerment Conference depends on the generosity of supporters like you. Your donation will directly impact the lives of marginalized women, providing them with the resources, education, and tools they need to break free from the cycle of poverty and discrimination. By giving generously, you will be investing in the future of these women, their families, and their communities. Together, we can create lasting change and empower a generation of women to rise, lead, and inspire others. Please join us in making a difference. Every contribution counts.
You can make your donation by clicking the DONATE button at the top of this page.
Thank you so much.