From child worker to
a respected woman
At the early age of 11, Jivika* had to start working as a domestic helper because her family needed the money to meet basic needs and have food.
She was then married at the age of 16, and moved from the suburbs to Kolkata to live with her in-laws. She had to continue working to support her new family. Although Jivika had a tough early life, she never gave up hope of creating a better life and a brighter future.
At the age of 32, she heard about LittleBigHelp’s vocational training programs and saw it as her chance. Her family allowed her to enroll in the beautician course, and our team quickly recognised her determination and potential.
During the training, she suddenly became pregnant, which for many women in the slums of India, puts a halt to the education due to family pressure. But Jivika persisted and completed her beauty education.
In December 2023, Jivika earned a total of 16,000 Indian Rupees (approximately 1,330 DKK – a normal monthly salary in the slum is around 400-500 DKK). Jivika is so proud that she has managed to earn such a good income despite her break with a small child:
“LittleBigHelp has made it possible for an uneducated woman like me to earn an income like any other woman with a respected background. Now I can confidently communicate with my clients and hope for a better future for my children.“
We think Jivika is the coolest and deserves a huge round of applause! Going from a tough childhood to now earning her own money while being a mother of young children is not easy, especially in the slums of India.
*Changed name
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