Made for you in Varanasi
The original home of The Shakti Mat lies in the holy city of Varanasi. In the rural outskirts of the city, it can be difficult for females to find meaningful employment. When the Gratitude Factory was first formed in 2008, it was Shakti's vision to create a sanctuary for female employees where they could become self-sufficient and financially independent in an inclusive and safe space.
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Suman (22)
"It's really like a family here, we share each other’s thoughts and there are no differences, everyone is equal. Since I came here my confidence has enhanced for sure. I’m independent now and everyone is proud of me. I would like to write to all the respected customers to tell them how we are working here and to thank them. Because of them my life has changed for good"
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Geeta (32)
"I feeI like I’m part of a family, all these women are like my sisters. We are all from different castes and religions but all of us are treated equally, there is no discrimination between us. I feel as if I belong here, people are affectionate as well as helpful and then there is the amazing work we do. I feel very dedicated to this place, it feels like my real home.”
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Nivedita (22)
“I’m so happy that I am making something that benefits others. I like the fact that what I make is being used all over the world, I feel very proud of this. My mother first came here and figured out the place and she was so happy that she sent me here. She likes the fact that I am working in a place where it's only women. I have such nice friends here and I can open my heart and talk about anything with them."
All women at the workshop are paid a living wage, sick leave and holiday leave. They are provided weekly meals, time for daily puja, free medical care, and an emergency medical fund for them and their families. A Shakti Scholarship program has been established to help fund private schooling for daughters of the employees and to have a generational impact.
