Courage knows no bounds, and learning has no age limit. Sukumari Ji, a middle-aged woman from Ghirongi village near Malanpur, has proven this to be true. In a community where women are rarely allowed to step out of their homes, she has shattered societal barriers to become an agent of change.

Ghirongi’s deep-rooted traditions have kept women in the shadows, with few opportunities for education or financial independence. Most organisations hesitate to work in the area due to its rigid mindset. However, a few years ago, Sangeeta Bhadauria from Zenith Society’s Samudayik Adhikar Kendra (SAK), Malanpur, took on the challenge. She observed the alarming levels of illiteracy among women and initiated a program to teach them basic literacy and numeracy skills.

Initially, interest was low. Many women believed education was unnecessary, given their household responsibilities. Undeterred, Sangeeta Ji persisted, finding a few willing learners—including Sukumari Ji, then 35 and a mother of three. Having been denied schooling due to the distance and co-educational setup, she saw this as a second chance.

Determined to make the most of it, Sukumari Ji embraced learning. While her husband, a driver in Gujarat, and her brothers had completed their matriculation, she had always been left behind. Not anymore! She not only mastered reading, writing, and basic mathematics but also began helping others. Her newfound confidence allowed her to manage her own paperwork, banking tasks, and even guide fellow villagers. She was also able to voice her opinion confidently in public gatherings, a rare feat for women in Ghirongi village.

Her journey was not without resistance. Relatives and neighbours criticised her, accusing her of corrupting young girls by encouraging them to step outside their homes. She faced thefts when she was away and relentless gossip followed her. With her husband working far from home and no in-laws to support her, she stood alone against societal pressure and remained undeterred.

Her efforts bore fruit. Sukumari Ji became a key contact for organisations aiming to uplift the region. She travelled to Delhi for training with NABARD and Surya Foundation, learning detergent-making, in addition to earlier courses in sewing, and machine operation. Today, she imparts these skills to other women, empowering them to become self-reliant.

“Organizations pay me for training others. An eight-day session earns me five to six thousand rupees, allowing me to take care of my children without depending on anyone," she shares proudly.

Her wage is on par with that of male workers in the region, another glass ceiling she has managed to break.

Sukumari Ji conducting a detergent powder making class

Her impact extends beyond financial independence. She has become a role model, proving that education transforms entire families and communities. Even her husband, initially sceptical, now supports her endeavours after witnessing her success and recognition. "At first, he didn’t understand why I wanted this. But when I won awards and started contributing financially, he began to trust me. Now, he doesn’t refuse when I ask to attend training. I told him—I won’t just work with your approval; I will make you proud."

Sukumari Ji continues to uplift others, teaching women in her village and even mentoring them over the phone.

"There are still many women who want to learn but need guidance. I will keep helping them as I have been helped."

She views Sangeeta ji from Zenith Society’s SAK Malanpur office as an inspiration to unleash the potential of more women like herself.

Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of education. Sukumari Ji is not just changing her own life but is lighting the way for many others to follow.

Sukumari Ji receiving recognition for her work