“It does not matter where you start, it matters where you finish.”
When most people think of women in businesses who have inspired millions, they think of world-renowned celebrities or influential political women leaders. However, many overlooked women from rural areas have had a tremendous impact on their communities and beyond.
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These inspiring women come from all walks of life, and each has her own unique story to tell. By highlighting the work of these extraordinary women, we can show that anyone can make a difference in the world. So meet some of the rural female role models who have made a lasting impact.
- Kalpana Saroj: She was born in a Vidharbha Dalit family, married at age 12, and moved in with her husband's family in a slum neighbourhood of Mumbai. However, she abandoned her husband and was brought back home by her saviour, her father, after enduring constant physical and mental torture at the hands of her in-laws. She made a fresh start as a working woman by beginning work at a clothing factory after being saved by her father. She later traded in the tailoring and furnishings stores and is currently one of Mumbai's largest merchants and inspiration for upcoming women Entrepreneurs. In addition to this, she received the Padma Shri Award in 2013.
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