From Homemaker to Handloom Leader- Seema Sharma’s Journey to weaving a new future!
Women like Seema Sharma, from a small village in Jammu, have shown us what can happen when determination meets opportunity. This is Seema’s story of transformation—how she stepped out of the confines of societal norms and became a beacon of hope, not just for herself but for all the women in her village.
Seema is a farmer member of Sharsid Overseas Private Limited- a rice producer organisation in India. Her journey is a powerful example of the impact of their Fairtrade premium-led Gender Leadership Initiatives. As we continue to work towards gender equality and empowerment, stories like Seema’s remind us that every stitch, every effort, contributes to a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Breaking the Chains of Tradition
For most of my life, I accepted these limitations, unsure of how to break free. However, in 2022, when I became a farmer member at Sharsid Overseas Private Limited, everything began to change. I joined the Fairtrade Gender Leadership Initiative, driven by a desire to be part of a movement that dismantles barriers for women and marginalized groups. My goal was to create a platform where women’s voices could be heard, empowering them to gain the confidence to take control of their lives and embrace new opportunities for growth and independence.
This initiative also provided me with an opportunity for personal growth, helping me build leadership skills, understand gender dynamics, and promote inclusivity. Additionally, I sought to bring about systemic changes in gender practices within our community, believing that education and awareness are the keys to driving meaningful change and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
In 2024, with the support of Fairtrade Premium Projects, our producer organization decided to establish a Handloom Centre in Satriyan, where women could be trained in sustainable,
high-quality handloom production. This wasn’t just about learning a craft; it was about creating a space where women could gather, learn, and generate income for their families. When I first heard about this initiative, I knew I had to be a part of it. I wanted to be a voice for change and set an example for the younger women in my village.
Weaving a New Future
Over the course of one year, I participated in the training, which equipped 15-20 women, including myself, with essential handloom skills and business knowledge. We learned not only to create beautiful handloom products but also to manage and market our work. As my skills grew, so did my confidence. I realized that this was more than just a way to make money—it was about breaking free from the constraints that had held us back for generations.
From Learner to Leader
The Fairtrade Premium Gender Leadership Initiative gave me the tools I needed to embrace leadership. I took on new responsibilities within our producer organization, helping to expand the Handloom Centre and train more women. It wasn’t long before I found myself leading training programs, encouraging other women to step into leadership roles and take control of their own lives. The transformation in my own mindset was profound. I saw the potential in myself that I had never recognized before, and I was determined to bring that same realization to others.
A Ripple of Change in the Village
Our Handloom Centre became a symbol of change in our village. Women who once had no decision-making power were now contributing financially to their families and actively participating in leadership within the producer organization. We began selling our handloom products at fairs and exhibitions, and the income we earned not only supported our families but also fuelled our confidence to pursue even greater goals.
Empowerment Beyond the Loom
Personally, this journey has changed me in ways I never imagined. I’ve gained the confidence to speak up, lead, and create spaces for other women to do the same. It’s not just about the financial independence we’ve gained—it’s about the pride and empowerment we now carry in our hearts. Balancing family responsibilities with training and leadership was difficult, but I managed it through effective time management and planning.
Future Vision: Building a Network of Women Entrepreneurs
Looking ahead, my vision is to expand our Handloom Centre, train even more women on fashion designing and embroidery work, and create a women-led network of entrepreneurs in our region. I want to mentor young girls and inspire them to pursue leadership roles, teaching them that they, too, can be agents of change in their communities. Together, we can build a future where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality.
