A New Approach with SHAKTHI

The SHAKTHI program took a different approach. Instead of defining the participants by their caregiving roles, the aim was to help each woman reconnect with her unique identity and sense of purpose beyond motherhood. From the outset, the program recognized that the mothers, while united by shared caregiving responsibilities, are individuals first—women with diverse dreams, talents, and life experiences that extend far beyond the label of "mother."

The participants represented a wide spectrum of age groups, economic backgrounds, and circumstances. Some were navigating the early, often overwhelming stages of caring for young children with disabilities, while others had decades of experience, caring for adult children who were as old as some of the younger mothers in the group. This diversity became a source of strength, creating a dynamic environment for mutual learning and shared growth.

Co-creation: Shifting the Narrative

From the very beginning, the facilitators sought to shift the narrative away from focusing solely on the participants' caregiving roles. Instead, they invited the women to reflect on their identities as individuals, tapping into memories and aspirations that may have been set aside. The question “What were your dreams when you were little girls?” opened up a space for self-reflection, helping the participants recall parts of themselves that had been sidelined in the demands of daily caregiving.

This question set the tone for a process of co-creation, where the program’s content was shaped in collaboration with the women themselves. Rather than imposing a pre-designed curriculum, the facilitators encouraged the participants to voice their own needs and desires, allowing the program to be tailored to their unique interests and goals. This approach enabled the women to see themselves, and each other, in a new light—not just as caregivers, but as aspiring entrepreneurs, artists, dancers, and learners, each with her own distinct journey.

A Community-led Initiative

The true essence of SHAKTHI lies in its shared ownership. After the initial sessions, leadership was transitioned to two facilitators chosen from the group. These women stepped up to guide the community forward, taking on the responsibility of leading discussions, revisiting individual SMART goals, and facilitating peer support. This decision marked a pivotal shift from an externally guided program to a community-led initiative, where the agency and direction of the program rested in the hands of the participants.

The facilitators, alongside the group, are now tasked with deciding the topics and speakers for each session, ensuring that the content remains relevant and aligned with the participants’ evolving needs. Each woman set a personal goal that resonated with her own interests and desires, ranging from learning to drive, to stitching a dress for her daughter, to starting a small tea shop, or even simply committing to attend the next session on time. These goals, though varied, reflect the unique aspirations and strengths of the group, highlighting the power of individual agency within a collective framework.

The Role of the Organizers:

Red Cross and Rhythm of Angels

The willingness of Red Cross and Rhythm of Angels to embrace this new, participant-led format was instrumental in the program’s success. Their support allowed the facilitators to experiment with a co-creation approach, empowering the women to take the lead in shaping the sessions. By stepping back and allowing the participants to take ownership, the organizers demonstrated a deep respect for the women’s agency and wisdom, creating a space where every voice was valued.

Looking Forward: The Journey Ahead

My role in this process was to kickstart the format, lay the groundwork for co-creation, and facilitate the initial sessions. However, the true vision for SHAKTHI is to see it flourish as a community-driven program, led by the participants themselves. With the two facilitators now at the helm, I look forward to observing how they navigate this journey, making adjustments based on the needs and aspirations of the group.

The hope is that, by the end of the year, this community of 28 women will have grown not only in confidence and self-awareness but also in their capacity to lead and support one another. By placing decision-making power in the hands of the participants, SHAKTHI aims to foster a sense of self-efficacy, helping these women find their own voices, recognize their inner strength, and tap into their own power—their SHAKTHI.

This process of co-creation is not just about setting goals; it is about reclaiming agency, building confidence, and cultivating a space where every participant can discover her own potential beyond the role of caregiver. It is a journey of self-realization and empowerment, driven by the collective strength of these remarkable women, and I am hopeful and excited to see where they take it from here. SHAKTHI is not merely a program—it is a movement towards acknowledging and embracing the full spectrum of their identities, proving that the power to lead, to grow, and to thrive lies within each of them.