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Across small towns in India women are redefining their roles; of being significant contributors to their family income and to be able save for critical needs like education, healthcare and social events like marriage. NextWealth’s social impact study clearly states that our women employees’ propensity to early marriage has increased by 2-3 years and that many are empowered to have a say while choosing a life partner. With 52% plus women employees across NextWealth centres, it became essential to provide them a safe space to have a dialogue and hence started our women developmental workshop aptly named Maitri. In Hindi Maitri means ‘friendship’.
The workshop designed for our women employees addresses key aspects of life that often define a woman's journey including the decision of marriage and childbirth.
- One of the fundamental discussions in Maitri revolves around sharing the importance of women pursuing their careers. It’s not just about financial independence only; it’s about the contribution that women can make to society through their work.
- Choosing a career path while managing familial responsibilities can be challenging. Maitri equips participants with communication strategies to strike that balance, plan, prioritise, network and thrive in both aspects of life.
- Marriage is a significant milestone in many women’s lives, and it comes with long-term implications. Maitri addresses the choices and consequences that come with this decision, encouraging informed choices. The same goes when planning a family and the challenges one goes through after childbirth.
- Participants are encouraged to build a strong family network, ask for help when needed, communicate with their family and extended family often and have a genuine appreciation of the concerns their family members may have, in times of long hours at work, decision of marriage or while bringing up their children. Effective communication is a cornerstone of personal and professional success.
- Maitri teaches women how to communicate effectively by understanding the concerns of others in their families, leading to healthier relationships.
- Understanding one’s goals and aspirations is pivotal to personal growth. Participants learn the importance of goal setting whether in their careers or personal lives. Financial planning also goes hand in hand with personal and career goals. This empowers women to take control of their financial future and make informed career decisions.
- Ultimately without good health, none of the above matters. The program concludes by emphasising the importance of focusing on overall wellness, equipping women with simple, doable ideas to lead healthier, happier lives and make their own health a priority.