Together, Aparna and her fellow VAG members prove that Community-driven Leadership can Transform Lives!
In the village of Padharewadi, located in Bhoom Block of Osmanabad District, Maharashtra, a remarkable journey of women’s empowerment began in 2021. Aparna Humbe, supported by Swayam Shikshan Prayog – SSP and driven by her passion for community development and leadership, facilitated the formation of the Village Action Group (VAG). The group started with 10 women from different communities, all committed to creating positive change.
One of the VAG’s first steps was linking their efforts to the Gram Panchayat to ensure that every woman was connected to local governance. Their unity quickly proved effective. In 2022, when the village went without electricity for two months, the VAG took action. They lobbied at the Gram Panchayat and the Electricity Board, successfully restoring power to their homes.
As the group gained recognition, they were invited to participate in community meetings, offering the perspectives of women who had often been left unheard. In August 2024, Aparna led 20 women to a critical Gram Sabha meeting to address issues like poor road conditions, blocked drains, the non-functioning anganwadi, and the lack of clean water. Thanks to their relentless advocacy, these problems are now being addressed: road repairs and drain cleaning have been approved, and a water filtration plant will be installed.
Beyond her work in Padharewadi, Aparna has supported the formation of VAGs in two other villages and works as a leader and mentor in 10 villages. A Master Trainer since 2023, she continues to link women to important government schemes and resources, empowering them to take control of their communities’ futures.
Together, Aparna and her fellow VAG members are proving that community-driven leadership can transform lives!
Swayam Shikshan Prayog
September 12, 2024