By Angel Golda for BIS Mumbai

Nerul, March 6, 2026: Don Bosco Social Development Services, Nerul, celebrated International Women’s Day by recognizing and empowering women who successfully completed various skill development courses. The occasion was marked by the distribution of certificates to women who graduated from courses in Tailoring, Beauty, Nail Art, and Hair & Makeup, encouraging them to pursue livelihoods with confidence and dignity. The event was graced by Adv. Swapna Gawade, Corporator of Navi Mumbai, and Dr Ashwini Jadhav from the Rotary Club of Navi Mumbai. Fr Barnabe D’Souza, Rector of Don Bosco Nerul, welcomed the dignitaries and delivered the welcome address, marking the formal beginning of the program.

The programs are specifically designed for women from migrant and economically vulnerable communities, many of whom come from illiterate or semi-literate backgrounds and have limited access to employment opportunities. These women often manage households and care for their children while dealing with the challenges of irregular or insufficient income from their spouses. Through these training initiatives, Don Bosco Social Development Services Nerul provides them with practical skills that help them become self-reliant and financially independent.

One of the inspiring stories is that of Mrs Mamta Katkori, who previously had no professional skills or employment. Determined to improve her situation, she joined the Tailoring Course conducted by Don Bosco Social Development Services, Nerul. Through dedication and hard work, she excelled in the program and secured an impressive 93.33% in her final examinations. Recognizing her achievement, Don Bosco Social Development Services, Nerul presented her with a tailoring machine to help her begin earning from home. In addition, other women who secured 80% and above in their tailoring examinations were also provided with sewing machines as encouragement to start their own tailoring work.

The Tailoring Course offered at Don Bosco Social Development Services, Nerul consists of two levels—Basic and Advanced, each with a duration of three months. Currently, 30 students are undergoing tailoring training at the Don Bosco centre in Nerul. The same program is also conducted in 20 slum communities, extending the opportunity to women who cannot travel to the centre. Through these initiatives, 15 tailoring machines have been distributed to deserving women to help them begin their livelihood.

The success of the program is reflected in the story of Maheshwari, who moved to Mumbai from Tirunelveli after her marriage and initially devoted herself entirely to her household responsibilities. Later, she enrolled in the Basic and Advanced Tailoring Courses conducted by Don Bosco. With dedication and creativity, she developed her skills and began stitching beautifully designed blouses. With the help of a sewing machine provided by the Don Bosco Development Services, Nerul, she started her own small home boutique. Today, Maheshwari earns a steady income by stitching designer blouses and contributes to supporting her family financially.

The Women’s Day celebration at Don Bosco Nerul was not only a moment of recognition but also a celebration of courage, resilience, and transformation. By providing skill training and tools for livelihood, Don Bosco Social Development Services, Nerul continues to empower women to build dignified lives and create a positive impact within their families and communities.