By Akshada Naik for BIS Mumbai

In a vibrant display of solidarity and progress, Don Bosco Chinchwad hosted a memorable International Women’s Day event, organized under the aegis of AXA Global Business Services. 

The gathering on March 31 brought together community leaders, educators, and aspiring entrepreneurs to champion gender equality and women's empowerment.

The occasion was graced by distinguished Chief Guests Ms. Lalita Fadtare, Pournima Temkar, Ms. Priyanka Raje from Pimpri Police Station's Damini Pathak squad, and Mrs. Minal Gawade and Mrs. Prajkta Gawade from MIGA Fashion Institute. Esteemed Guests of Honour included Fr. Colbert, Social Work In-charge at Don Bosco Chinchwad, and Mr. Nilesh Changude, Principal of the institute.

Keynote addresses set an inspiring tone. Fr Anton D'Souza, Director of the Institute, urged attendees to dismantle persistent gender barriers, stating, "Women are the architects of tomorrow's society; empowering them unlocks limitless potential." Ms. Prajkta Gawade echoed this, sharing stories of resilience from the fashion world. Ms. Pournima Temkar and Principal Nilesh Changude emphasized education and skill-building as cornerstones of equality, calling for collective action against inequality.

A highlight was the felicitation of 30 women who completed the Fashion Designing Course under the Women Empowerment Project. Each graduate received a certificate and a starter tailoring kit, equipping them to launch their own businesses. "This kit is my first step toward financial independence," beamed one recipient, symbolizing hope for many.

Behind the scenes, the event's flawless execution owed much to Mrs. Akshada Naik, Coordinator at Don Bosco Chinchwad, whose meticulous planning ensured every detail shone. Social workers Mrs. Vibhawari Kamble and Mrs. Rajshree Deshkhaire handled logistics seamlessly, from refreshments to on-site essentials, culminating in delightful snacks that capped the program on a joyful note.

In her heartfelt vote of thanks, Mrs. Akshada Naik lauded Fr. Colbert for his steadfast support. She also thanked the staff and students of DB ITI for their enthusiastic collaboration with the DBDS team, which amplified the event's impact.

This celebration not only marked International Women's Day but reinforced Don Bosco Chinchwad's commitment to skill development and community upliftment, in partnership with AXA. 

As participants left inspired, the message rang clear: empowered women lead thriving societies.