Originally from Kavre, Karuna’s passion for sewing was put on hold after her marriage. However, an opportunity arose when she attended SCLC’s 5-day sewing training. Trainings are held at Agriculture Learning Resource Centre (ALRC) building of SCLC supported by ONGD-FNEL Scouts and Guides, Luxembourg. SCLC and ONGD-FNEL partnership has supported numerous youth and women to start their entrepreneurship.
Despite initial illiteracy, Karuna’s journey towards success began when she also enrolled in SCLC’s Open School Program, graduating from grade 8 and completing her SEE while simultaneously enhancing her tailoring skills by participating in “Advance Tailoring Training” provided by SCLC and Rukmini Foundation.
Armed with both education and sewing skills, Karuna began taking school uniform orders, primarily from Rukmini Foundation, Shikharapur Community School, staffs of SCLC and other local schools. With her family’s support in bringing additional orders, Karuna’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished. Moreover, she also became the Chairperson of “Udhyami Mahila Samuha”, a women’s skill empowerment group formed alongside peers from the “Advanced Tailoring Program”. The group is formed in the initiation of Rukmini Foundation. Foundation also supported with sewing and knitting equipment, tools and machines.
Together, they were able to generate an initial annual income of around 2 lakhs.
Karuna’s journey didn’t end with her own success. She also initiated a skill empowerment program where she taught sewing techniques, including mask and sanitary pad making, to five of her friends with the assistance of SCLC.
Engaging with SCLC and the Shikharapur Open School significantly contributed to Karuna’s literacy and empowerment. Today, she stands as a financially independent woman, thanks to her determination, education, and skills acquired through Shikharapur Open School and SCLC’s programs.
Karuna Sunar’s journey from trainee to trainer with SCLC exemplifies the transformative power of education and skill development.
Interview and Story By:
Lalita Ghimire, Project Coordinator
Shikharapur Open School
Edited and Transcribed by:
Tisha Manandhar,
Social Work Intern
BSW/PsY, Trichandra Campus
