Raziya Chashmawala’s passion project

We are in the midst of a heat wave in Mumbai with rising temperatures scorching the Western coast of India. But in the far-flung suburbs of maximum city, workers are beating the heat and building a structure that towers above the adjoining slums.

It is Raziya Chashmawala’s passion project.

The Deputy Chairperson of the WMO ladies wing North India Chapter is the perfect epitome of strong women empowering other women. Empowerment of women belonging to the marginalised sections of society has been one of the most essential humanitarian services provided by WMO under the leadership of Raziya Chashmawala. Thousands of women in India have been nurtured and trained to cultivate special skill sets that enable them to earn a livelihood, provide for their families, afford an education for their children thus ensuring a life of dignity.

The 3 storey building coming up in the middle of the Ambojwadi slums will serve as an institution, offering a multitude of courses to women including sewing, embroidery, computer training, self grooming, cooking amongst several others.

As Raziya Chashmawala stands under the noon day sun, covered with dirt and dust, supervising the construction work in the searing heat, as another slab is added to the structure, she states, “There is no greater force than a woman determined to rise. As we all rise by lifting others through these entrepreneurial initiatives.”

We can only nod in agreement.