Independent life is very important. That is why I chose to go out for a job, not stay at home. I want to stand on my own feet, contribute, and feel confident.
In Maralahalli, Nirmala starts her day reviewing notes from the Parivartan Skill Academy course. At 33, she faced the challenge of maintaining her career while balancing family responsibilities and limited local employment opportunities. Degrees in Accounting and Taxation and prior experience as an HR assistant gave her a foundation, but the closure of her company left her uncertain about her future.
“I wanted to keep learning and stay active professionally, but also be close to my family,” she shares.
The Parivartan Skill Academy course in retail sales, computer literacy, and life skills gave her the tools she needed. Hands-on exercises in inventory management, sales tracking, and MS Office turned theory into actionable skills. Workshops on communication, time management, and problem-solving gave her the confidence to navigate professional challenges. Career guidance through resume building, mock interviews, and workplace etiquette gave her a strategic edge as she prepares to re-enter the job market.
The course bridged the gap between her academic knowledge and real-world job requirements and led to a job offer from Flipkart. She now looks forward to stepping into an HR or retail operations role close to home and hopes to mentor other women in her community.
When women gain self-confidence, self-control, and the ability to earn, they can truly lead independent lives. Now I know I have the skills to contribute, grow, and stand on my own. I feel capable. I feel ready.
Note: Nirmala is a student of the ‘Empowerment Through Skills: Inclusive Training for Economic Independence’ program, supported and funded by HDFC Bank Parivartan and implemented by CBM India at the Parivartan Skill Academy in Kolar, Karnataka. Over three years, 1,140 young people from marginalized communities and persons with disabilities will receive NSDC-certified training in IT, retail, and life skills. Through hands-on learning, career guidance, and job placement support, participants will gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities to secure employment and build independence.
