When women like Nilmini Athapatthu gain the confidence to lead and negotiate effectively, they drive real change for women and workers in their communities.
As the secretary of her Small Producer Organization (SPO), Nilmini’s journey from a hesitant leader to a confident, empowered voice for change is inspiring. Through the support of Fairtrade NAPP’s Gender Leadership Training, she overcame challenges, enhanced her skills, and now leads with determination—helping to increase productivity, income, and opportunities for women in her community.
My Leadership Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Empowering Women
I am Nilmini Athapatthu, and I work as the secretary of our Small Producer Organization (SPO). My journey from a hesitant secretary to a confident leader has been one of growth, transformation, and resilience.
As the secretary of our Small Producer Organization (SPO), I am responsible for important decisions during board meetings and Annual General Meetings (AGM). I also worked closely with farmer clusters on various projects. However, navigating these responsibilities was not always easy, especially when it came to negotiating with other society members. This was a personal challenge for me as I took on leadership roles. I knew I had to improve my skills in negotiation to truly make an impact.
Joining the Fairtrade Gender Leadership Training
When my organization nominated me to participate in the Fairtrade Gender Leadership Training, I saw it as a vital opportunity to enhance my leadership abilities. I was eager to develop my skills, particularly in public speaking and overcoming the shyness I felt when addressing large gatherings.
The training was transformative. It taught me how to approach challenges with a positive mindset and gave me a new perspective on leadership. Before the training, I often doubted my ability to find solutions to the problems I faced. Now, I am more confident, thinking of solutions rather than getting bogged down by challenges. This shift in perspective has been empowering.
Becoming a Leader
Post-training, I continue to serve as the secretary of the organization, but with greater responsibility. I oversee the primary processing of fruits and take on a leadership role in ensuring that production runs smoothly. Under my leadership, we have seen an increase in the membership of our organization. Our primary production volume has also increased leading to increased income for the women and workers in the processing unit.
Balancing Family and Responsibilities
Balancing my responsibilities as a leader with my family life has been challenging, but I have learned to manage my time effectively. By scheduling my daily and monthly activities, I ensure that I meet my commitments at work while also supporting my daughter’s education. This balance has been key to my growth, both personally and professionally.
Advice for Women Leaders
To other women who aspire to take on leadership roles, my advice is simple: take responsibility with commitment. Leadership is about stepping up and being dedicated to the task at hand, no matter the challenges. With determination, you can break through barriers and make a difference.
Support from Fairtrade NAPP
Fairtrade NAPP has played a significant role in my transformation. The training and advisory support they provided have been invaluable in helping me grow as a leader and in guiding the development of our organization. Their continued support ensures that we remain on the path of growth and empowerment.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, my goal is to continue improving the productivity and efficiency of our processing center. I am committed to increasing the sale of Fairtrade products through our organization, ensuring that more women and farmers benefit from the opportunities Fairtrade provides. I believe that through our collective efforts, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
