Project Setu empowers 750 Surat girls with skills

Surat : In a significant move to empower young girls in Surat, about 750 students from Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC)-run Suman schools have received free training under the ambitious “Project Setu.” This initiative aims to hone the hidden talents of these girls, while also focusing on their mental well-being. The project, which is the brainchild of three determined women—Jalpa Thakkar, Nimisha Parekh, and Ami Patel—has provided the girls with valuable skills in rakhi-jewelry making, mehndi, dance, and music.

“Project Setu” is more than just a training program; it is a bridge to a brighter future for the students. Supported by the SMC, the project’s primary objective is to develop the skills of girls in Suman schools and to strengthen their mental health. This initiative specifically targets students in the 9th and 10th grades, providing them with opportunities to explore their interests and potentially build careers in various artistic fields.

Jalpa Thakkar, the owner of Culture Signature, a brand known globally for its traditional jewelry, has played a crucial role in the project by offering training in rakhi-jewelry making. She believes that through this initiative, the girls can not only learn a craft but also gain confidence and financial independence in the future.

Nimisha Parekh, co-founder of Mehndi Culture, has been instrumental in bringing the art of mehndi to the forefront. Her unique approach to mehndi art is aimed at making it accessible and appreciated within the community. Under “Project Setu,” she has trained the students in mehndi design, a skill that is both culturally significant and potentially lucrative.

Ami Patel, who runs the academy ‘Shilp Maitri’ with more than 20 art classes, has contributed her expertise in dance and music. Through these creative outlets, Patel aims to provide the girls with a platform to express themselves, which is essential for maintaining good mental health. She also envisions these skills as a stepping stone for the girls to pursue further opportunities in the arts.

The training sessions have taken place at Suman School No. 07 in Dindoli, Suman School No. 10, and Suman School No. 03 in Katargam. These schools, with the support of Surat city’s Mayor, Dr. Daxesh Mavani, have been pivotal in the project’s success. The initiative is not just about imparting skills; it is about fostering a sense of self-worth and purpose among the students.

International mehndi artist Nimisha Parekh highlighted the broader goals of “Project Setu,” stating, “We are not just teaching a skill; we are trying to recognize the talents of these students and help them take their art further. So far, we have trained 750 female students, and we aim to reach many more in the future.”

Looking ahead, “Project Setu” plans to offer internships to help these young women support their families financially. The initiative is a testament to the power of community-driven projects in transforming lives, providing young girls with the tools they need to build a brighter future while ensuring their mental well-being.