Sonia’s Story
Sonia is the first girl in her family able to access economic empowerment and secure an independent future for herself and her mother.
Sonia’s studies and worldview expanded through AIF’s Livelihoods program, which provides skill development for women and helps build a pipeline of women in STEM careers. After completing her vocational training at ITI, she stepped into the job market with hope, only to face several rejections. But she kept going. That persistence, paired with real skill development, finally opened a door. Today, she works as a green electrician at Hero Electric in Gurgaon, far from her small village near Rewari, as one of the few female electricians at the company.
Sonia’s journey of economic independence did not stop at employment. With green jobs training and a steady income, she now covers her own expenses, supports her mother, and no longer needs to depend on anyone. For her, financial independence is a quiet source of pride, which shows in the way she speaks about her work.
Her mentors believe that her story reflects a major societal shift: girls are now being encouraged to develop skills through vocational training and skill development, build sustainable careers, achieve economic empowerment, and uplift their families along the way. As green jobs shape the future, young women like Sonia are proving that economic empowerment starts with belief, one confident step at a time. Her story is also a reminder that economic empowerment changes not just one life, but impacts generations to come.
To learn more about AIF’s Livelihoods programs, click [LINK].
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) What is the mission of AIF’s livelihoods program?
The mission of AIF’s livelihoods program is to expand access to work opportunities for vulnerable communities and empower them with skill development and sustainable livelihoods.
2) Who does AIF’s livelihoods program serve?
AIF’s livelihoods program serves women and youth from marginalized communities across India. Its long-term goal is to equalize the informal and formal sectors to provide equitable opportunities for all citizens.
3) How does AIF’s livelihoods program create impact?
AIF’s livelihoods program aims to create a reimagined job and entrepreneurship ecosystem in India that helps vulnerable communities build sustainable livelihoods. The initiatives under the Livelihoods portfolio include several integrated community-based interventions that provide these communities with access to dignified work opportunities.
4) What has been the impact of the livelihoods program so far?
AIF’s livelihood program has empowered over 3.9 million people, with 868,500 street vendors enrolled, 641,500 livelihoods created, 540,000 women impacted through skilling programs, and 306 skilling centers established.
5) How can I support AIF’s livelihood program?
You can make a meaningful difference by visiting aif.org to donate in honor of AIF’s 25th anniversary, helping empower women like Sonia with the work opportunities they deserve.
