Threads of Independence – The Story of Kailash Kanwar

Threads of Independence – The Story of Kailash Kanwar

Category: Women's Institutions January 31, 2026

Partner Organization: WomenServe (with TAC Livelihoods Project)
Implementing Partner: Local2Global
Beneficiary: Kailash Kanwar, 19 years, Young Artisan & Stitching Trainee
Village: Naya Gaon, Tehsil Bap, District Phalodi

Kailash Kanwar

In the desert village of Naya Gaon, Tehsil Bap, Phalodi, life for young women has traditionally been limited to household responsibilities. Opportunities for learning or earning were scarce, and stepping outside the home to pursue personal aspirations was often discouraged.

Among these girls was Kailash Kanwar, a bright and determined 19-year-old who quietly dreamed of earning her own income, contributing to her family’s well-being, and gaining the respect of her community. However, the absence of training centers, mentors, and financial resources kept her ambitions confined to her home.

“Her life, like that of many other girls in her village, seemed destined to remain confined to her home.”

Catalyst for Change

The turning point came in 2022 when Kailash learned about the TAC Livelihoods Project, introduced in her village by Local2Global with support from WomenServe. The project focused on equipping women and girls with employable skills, particularly in stitching and embroidery, to help them become self-reliant.

“If I learn this skill, I can finally earn, stand on my own, and prove that women too can create their own future.”

Encouraged by this opportunity, Kailash enrolled in the program with courage and determination.

WomenServe’s Role

WomenServe’s vision of empowering rural women combined livelihood training with confidence-building. Through its partnership with Local2Global, WomenServe not only introduced stitching and embroidery training but also created a safe, skill-focused, and encouraging environment.

At the Local2Global Sewing Center, Kailash received structured training in:

  • Garment cutting and stitching – creating clothes with precision

  • Embroidery and finishing techniques – adding creativity and finesse

  • Independent work-readiness – managing customer orders with confidence

Training alongside other young women created a supportive community, encouraging Kailash to grow in both skill and self-belief.

Action Taken

Kailash immersed herself in daily practice, growing more confident with each stitch. Recognizing her dedication, trainers encouraged her to push her boundaries further.

With her first earnings, Kailash purchased a sewing machine, transforming her home into a small workshop. She began taking independent stitching and embroidery orders, earning the trust of neighbors and villagers for her neat finishing and reliable work.

“After learning stitching and embroidery, I am now standing on my own feet. I earn by stitching and doing embroidery work for people in my village, and I feel proud of my work.”

Her determination and skills turned her from a learner into a provider, and her home into a hub of productivity.

Outcome

Today, Kailash is a recognized artisan in her village, earning a steady income that supports her family and reduces financial stress. Beyond material benefits, she has gained respect and recognition. Villagers now see her as a skilled professional and role model, not just someone’s daughter or sister.

Her journey has inspired other young women to pursue livelihoods, build independence, and reshape their futures.

Kailash dreams bigger—she hopes to train other girls in her community and eventually open her own tailoring shop, turning her individual success into collective empowerment.

“I am thankful to WomenServe and Local2Global for giving me this opportunity. Because of their support, I have learned a skill, become independent, and gained respect in my community. I hope to inspire other girls like me.”

For Kailash, stitching is no longer just a trade—it is a thread of dignity, identity, and freedom.