ONE-DAY WORKSHOP ON LEADERSHIP AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Date: [Insert Date]
Venue: Bethel Hall, G. Kholep
Time: 11:00 A.M

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Empowering Women, Inspiring Leaders

IRMA, in collaboration with the Ayni Project, successfully conducted a One-Day Workshop on Leadership and Women Empowerment at Bethel Hall, G. Kholep. The event brought together thirty women from diverse backgrounds to explore and strengthen their roles as leaders and change-makers in their communities.

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🤝 Setting the Stage

The workshop began with a warm welcome from Mrs. Phaneikim Hoakip, coordinator of the Ayni Project. A round of self-introductions fostered a collaborative and inclusive environment, laying the groundwork for open dialogue and mutual support.

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🎙️ Opening Remarks

Mrs. T. Lamjaneng Haokip, Chief Functionary of IRMA, delivered an inspiring address, recognizing the importance of such gatherings in empowering women at the grassroots level. She acknowledged the contributions of the invited resource persons and expressed her hope that the workshop would inspire participants to grow both personally and collectively.

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👥 Introduction of Resource Persons

Mrs. Haokip shared thoughtful introductions of the guest speakers:

• Mr. Hejang Misao, Director of Inside North East
• Dr. Hoipi, Assistant Professor, Department of History, Presidency College

She emphasized their dedication to social progress and their significant roles in advancing education, empowerment, and leadership in the region.

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📚 Session Highlights

Dr. Hoipi on Women Empowerment

Dr. Hoipi provided a compelling lecture defining empowerment as a mechanism through which individuals gain strength, autonomy, and rights. Her key points included:

• Dimensions of Empowerment:
  • Economic: Creating financial independence.
  • Educational: Access to knowledge and critical thinking.
  • Political: Participation in decision-making processes.
• Challenges in Kuki Society:
  • Customary laws and restrictive inheritance practices continue to hinder progress for women.
  • Misconceptions about educational support need to be addressed—it’s not just financial aid, but the recognition of one’s rights.
• Historical Lens:
  • She reflected on the women’s movement in the United States during the late 1960s, encouraging participants to see themselves as part of a broader historical continuum.
• Message of Encouragement:
  • Empowerment starts with self-worth, self-care, and a solid educational foundation.

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Mr. Hejang Misao on Leadership Development

Mr. Misao’s session focused on the role of leadership in community transformation, particularly through the influence of families, churches, and village institutions.

• Pathways to Empowerment:
  • Knowledge acquisition
  • Skill development
  • Cultivation of a positive mindset
• Interactive Role-Play:
  • A group of ten volunteers took part in an engaging exercise: walking in a line with closed eyes, guided only by a leader’s voice.
  • This demonstrated the importance of trust, direction, and communication in leadership.
• Qualities of Good Leaders:
  • Delegation
  • Mentorship
  • Resourcefulness and creativity in solving challenges

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🌟 Conclusion: Envisioning Women as Change Agents

Dr. Hoipi concluded with a call to action—encouraging women to see themselves as entrepreneurs and innovators, capable of building small-scale industries and contributing to economic resilience. The session ended with an open discussion, allowing participants to share thoughts and reflect on the day’s learnings.

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🌿 Final Takeaway

The workshop was a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of women when equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and support. Through education, leadership, and active engagement, women can and will shape a more just, equitable future.

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IRMA remains committed to advancing women’s rights, leadership, and empowerment at all levels of society. For more updates on our initiatives, visit www.irma.org.in.