Our why

Why we consult Indian social enterprises and state government institutions pro bono

Women on Wings’ mission is to move rural Indian families out of poverty. We provide pro bono consulting and mentoring to Indian social enterprises and state government institution programs. We do this so they can scale and offer further job opportunities to rural women in an economically profitable and sustainable way. Our BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) is to co-create one million jobs for women who live in rural India so they have the agency to give their families a better start.

Break the cycle of poverty for rural Indian families

When rural Indian women who face a lack of educational and economic opportunities have the opportunity to earn an income, they play a vital role in the growth and development of their families and communities.

Providing an income for rural Indian women has positive implications for their immediate well-being and better access to healthcare, nutrition and education. Empowering women with an income will not only transform her family’s lives, it will also trickle out to her community. It makes economic sense. It is the way to break the cycle of poverty. (World Bank)

Women’s greater agency in household decision making

From our experience, working women gain greater decision-making power regarding the use of household resources. They will experience increased self-esteem and self-pride, which ultimately results in a more equal position in the family. Furthermore, when rural women are able to earn an income, they can also become leaders in their communities. They can share their knowledge and skills with others, and become advocates for change. This leads to a more equal and just society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

An extra year of primary school for rural Indian girls

Women investing extra income in their children provides a route to sustainable development. When children can go to (a better) school, it increases their chances of a better future. According to UN Women, an extra year in primary school:

  • increases girls’ eventual wages by 10-20 percent
  • makes girls less likely to experience violence
  • results in having fewer children
  • encourages girls to marry later

Educating rural Indian girls is one of the most powerful tools for women’s empowerment. It provides women of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills, and self-confidence they need to seek out economic opportunities.

Mittal, 15 year old rural Indian school girl

“My mother got married at a very young age. At my age my mother worked in the field. But I get to study, I am proud of my mother. Despite not being educated, my mother works so that I can purse my further studies for a better future.”

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