For Syamala, life had been shaped by hardship long before support arrived. Living in a leprosy-affected community, her family faced constant social exclusion, unstable income, and the emotional toll of being treated as invisible. Opportunities were scarce, and survival often meant enduring uncertainty with quiet resilience.
Profile Snapshot
Name: Syamala
Age: 38 years
Location: Vizianagaram District, Andhra Pradesh
Background: Family affected by leprosy
Support Provided: Self-Help Group membership and income-generation assistance
Life Before Support
Syamala’s household depended on irregular daily wages that barely covered food expenses. Health issues within the family further reduced earning capacity, pushing them into recurring debt. Due to stigma associated with leprosy, access to community resources, employment, and financial services remained limited. Like many women in similar situations, Syamala carried the burden of sustaining her family while having little control over income or decision-making.
BFDT’s Intervention
Recognizing her potential, Brighter Future Development Trust encouraged Syamala to join a Self-Help Group (SHG) formed under its community empowerment initiatives. Through the SHG, she received financial literacy guidance, peer support, and access to a livelihood loan. With this support, Syamala started a small grocery and provisions business, enabling her to generate steady income close to home.
BFDT’s involvement went beyond financial assistance. Continuous mentoring, encouragement, and community engagement helped her gain confidence and stability in managing both business and household responsibilities.
Transformation
Within months, Syamala’s income became consistent. She was able to repay her loan in regular installments, manage household expenses, and reduce dependence on moneylenders. The business provided her not only financial security but also a sense of identity and purpose. Neighbors who once kept their distance began to interact with her as a contributor to the local economy.
“For the first time, I feel respected—not because of charity, but because I earn on my own.”
— Syamala
A Story That Reflects a Larger Change
Syamala’s journey is not an isolated success—it represents the broader impact of Brighter Future’s commitment to women-led empowerment. By strengthening self-help groups and providing livelihood opportunities, BFDT enables women to rebuild their lives with dignity, resilience, and independence.
Each empowered woman becomes a pillar of strength for her family and community.
