Across the rural villages of Andhra Pradesh, the future of women and their families are transformed by the opportunity to gain skills, confidence, and a steady income. Through the Empower-Her Andhra Pradesh Sewing Project, a new partnership between the Anita Mendiratta Foundation and the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), this transformation is spreading. Together, we’re helping women in over 18 communities gain skills to build a brighter, more independent future.
Through Empower-Her, over 50 women in the villages around Sattenapalle, Tiruvuru, and Hanuman Junction will gain vital sewing skills. Supported by our dedicated partners Adventure Aid and Mercy and Grace Charitable Trust, this project offers women the tools to create stable, self-driven livelihoods and to serve as role models for their communities.
A previous graduating class of women at the Mercy and Grace Sewing Training School.
IHCL, South Asia’s largest hospitality company, has long been committed to supporting communities across India through sustainable and impactful programs. Known for its iconic Taj Hotels and commitment to world-class service, IHCL combines tradition and innovation to create positive change.
“The Empower-Her Andhra Pradesh Sewing Project embodies IHCL’s principles of Paathya, fostering long-term socio-economic growth and creating lasting change that uplifts individuals and strengthens communities.”
For the women in Andhra Pradesh, sewing is more than just a skill, it’s a new path for them to take. In areas where opportunities are limited, being able to earn an income empowers these women to put their children through education, and create ripples of societal change as single mothers and young women gain the independence to shape their own futures.
At AMF, we’ve always believed that uplifting one person uplifts entire communities, and this project is a perfect example. The Empower-Her Andhra Pradesh Sewing Project is more than skills training, it’s hope and possibility in action. Each woman who participates has the potential to spark meaningful change for her family, her children, her neighbours, and her community.
Co-Leads of Global Projects for the Anita Mendiratta Foundation with past beneficiaries during a visit in 2023.
This partnership with IHCL is an exciting step forward for us at AMF, and for the women enrolled in the Empower-Her Andhra Pradesh Sewing Project. This partnership proves just how powerful shared values and commitment to empowerment can be.
“Empowering women through vocational training creates a ripple effect that strengthens families, communities, and economies. This initiative provides essential skills while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, paving the way for sustainable growth. To bring it to life and lives with IHCL is an immense joy and honour for my Foundation.”
Everyone at AMF would like to give a special thank you to our dedicated on-the-ground partner, Adventure Aid, a UK registered charity founded by Ashley Platten-Mills. Adventure Aid has been championing women in disadvantaged and marginalised communities across Asia and Africa for over a decade. It is because of Ashley’s work and efforts in Andhra Pradesh, through organisations such as the Mercy and Grace Charitable Trust and APT Social Services Society, that we are able to come together with IHCL and upscale this important initiative to reach even more women together.
The future we’re sewing together is bright, and we’re honoured to help these women stitch their way to a new beginning, one that promises hope, resilience, and strength in every seam.
To read more about this partnership and the Empower-Her Andhra Pradesh Sewing Project, download the full press release here.
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