The Basic to Advanced Mehendi Course, conducted from March 18 to March 21, 2025, at the Pullukadu Housing Unit, aimed to empower underprivileged women by equipping them with practical, income-generating skills. A total of 4 participants received hands-on training in organic mehendi cone making and professional-level designs such as Arabic, bridal, mandala, and occasion-based patterns. The course was designed to develop artistic skills while building speed, accuracy, symmetry, and creativity. Special focus was placed on design composition, spacing, and adapting to client preferences. The training promoted organic methods by teaching participants to prepare mehendi using natural ingredients, ensuring safety and skin-friendliness. Participants learned how to make cones, create intricate designs, and enhance body features through thoughtful placement of patterns. The program also introduced basic principles of product development and color coordination. The initiative aimed to transform a traditional art form into a viable livelihood option, helping women gain financial independence. Entrepreneurial aspects were addressed through sessions on taking local mehendi orders, promoting services at community fairs, and using online platforms to expand reach. The course encouraged participants to see themselves as potential business owners, capable of offering high-quality services for weddings and festivals. Through continuous practice and expert guidance, participants improved their confidence and design quality. The program also supported creativity by encouraging experimentation with styles and techniques. Real-time application of designs during the sessions allowed participants to refine their skills and prepare for real-world customer demands. The training ultimately helped women move beyond hobby-level interest and into a market-ready professional mindset. Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement to take up mehendi as a small business. The initiative reinforced the importance of grassroots-level skill training as a sustainable path to self-reliance and empowerment. This training was a stepping stone to self-employment, offering a low-investment, high-demand opportunity for women to earn from home. By merging art, skill, and entrepreneurship, the course provided a platform for long-term livelihood development.
HANDMADE HEROINES 2 – Silk Thread Jewellery Making workshop
On March 17, 2024, a one-day Silk Thread Jewellery Making workshop was conducted at the BTG Trust office to empower women from slum communities through skill-based learning. With 10 enthusiastic participants, the training aimed to equip homemakers and adolescent girls with practical, low-investment craft skills that can lead to self-employment. Participants learned to make elegant bangles, earrings, and hair accessories using vibrant silk threads and simple tools. The step-by-step, beginner-friendly approach encouraged artistic expression and built self-confidence. Beyond skill development, the training introduced the basics of entrepreneurship—how to price, market, and sell handmade jewellery in local markets, exhibitions, and online platforms. Participants were also taught about material selection, color coordination, product finishing, and design planning, especially for bridal and festive collections. This session highlighted the commercial potential of handmade jewellery and inspired women to consider micro-entrepreneurship opportunities. A strong focus was placed on creating beautiful, wearable, and market-ready pieces. The workshop proved to be more than just a craft class—it became a platform for economic empowerment and creative growth. One participant shared that the training made her feel confident and motivated to pursue jewellery making as a sustainable livelihood. By the end of the program, many expressed interest in continuing their learning journey and starting small businesses. This initiative is part of a broader mission to support grassroots-level women entrepreneurs and foster inclusive economic development.
WOMEN’S DAY – HANDMADE HEROINES 1 – Basic Organic Mehendi Course
The Basic Organic Mehendi Course, conducted on 8th and 9th March 2024 at the BTG Trust office, was a two-day skill development initiative aimed at empowering 18 women and adolescent girls from underserved communities. This hands-on workshop introduced participants to the traditional and eco-friendly art of Mehendi using natural henna. The training began with the preparation of organic henna paste and cone making, followed by guided sessions on basic patterns, floral elements, and symmetrical designs. The objective was to provide foundational skills that could help participants explore self-employment through mehendi services. The course emphasized sustainable practices using natural ingredients safe for all skin types. Alongside skill training, the workshop provided entrepreneurial insights into how this craft could be monetized at local events, weddings, or even online platforms. Participants were trained to create customer-friendly designs suited for both festive and casual occasions. The workshop also encouraged creativity, confidence, and market-readiness. Feedback from participants highlighted the instructor’s engaging approach and the overall positive learning environment. Many expressed interest in pursuing advanced training and starting their own small-scale mehendi businesses. This course served as a vital stepping stone toward financial independence and artistic growth, reaffirming our mission to build livelihood opportunities through grassroots entrepreneurship.
BLOSSOM – Anganwadi Wall Painting
The “Anganwadi Wall Painting and Awareness Project” is a community-driven initiative undertaken by the Liferay Foundation to improve the infrastructure and environment of the Kallar Anganwadi located in Thooripalam, an underdeveloped tribal region in Mettupalayam. With support from the ICDS, the project was implemented over a span of three days, starting on February 27th, 2024. The primary goal was to clean, renovate, and paint the Anganwadi premises, transforming it into a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space for tribal children and their mothers. By addressing both physical infrastructure and awareness, the project emphasized the importance of hygiene, health, and early childhood care. As part of the initiative, awareness sessions were conducted to educate tribal mothers and children on hygiene and wellness practices. These sessions aimed to foster behavioral change and instill healthier routines within the community. The project benefited 30 individuals directly and aimed to create a long-term impact through empowerment and education. Enhanced visual appeal through wall painting contributed to a more child-friendly and stimulating environment. Clean surroundings and better-maintained facilities now support improved health standards. The project also encouraged community ownership of the Anganwadi and its upkeep. By involving local volunteers and SHG members, it promoted participation and inclusiveness. Overall, the initiative supports better developmental outcomes for tribal children. It aligns with broader goals of health, education, and community engagement in marginalized areas. The project is a step toward sustainable tribal development. It also lays the groundwork for future social impact efforts. The effort exemplifies Liferay Foundation’s commitment to empowering underprivileged communities. Through collaborative work and targeted interventions, meaningful change has been initiated.
EDU PLAY – Day at School Program
Project Eduplay: Day at School-1 was conducted on February 8, 2024, at Chinnathadagam and benefitted 110 school students. Organized by MSW Concurrent Fieldwork students, this initiative combined awareness, education, and recreation to create a fun, interactive, and meaningful learning experience for children. The primary aim was to empower students with essential life skills, including awareness about good and bad touch, the value of family, and the importance of education. Sessions were designed using age-appropriate language and real-life scenarios to help children recognize unsafe situations and learn how to seek help. Students were also informed about helpline services like Childline (1098). A motivational talk helped children understand how family and education shape their future. Drawing activities enabled creative expression, while games encouraged teamwork, coordination, and problem-solving. MSW students engaged directly with the children through conversations that built trust and understanding. As a result, students felt safe, heard, and valued. The program enhanced their awareness, self-expression, interpersonal skills, and understanding of supportive systems. This initiative also gave MSW students hands-on experience in conducting impactful community interventions. Eduplay successfully fostered a nurturing environment for holistic development, serving as a model for future child empowerment programs.
AWARENESS PROGRAM – National Girl Child Day 2024
On the occasion of National Girl Child Day 2024, the Liferay Foundation, in collaboration with the Police Department and Avinashilingam University, Coimbatore, organized a Women Sensitization Program on January 24, 2024. The event took place at Avinashilingam University and was attended by 700 enthusiastic NSS girl volunteers from the first-year undergraduate program. The primary objective of this initiative was to raise awareness among young girls about vital issues such as financial literacy, mental wellness, and cyber safety—empowering them for a confident and self-reliant future. Through this program, the participants gained insights into managing their finances, recognizing mental health concerns, and staying safe in the digital space. Esteemed speakers such as Mr. Naresh Babu, Chartered Accountant, addressed the students on financial planning. Mrs. Suganya, Sub-Inspector of Police and Cyber Crime Division, gave an eye-opening talk on online safety and cyber awareness. Mrs. Swathi, Senior Psychiatrist from KMCH Hospital, emphasized the importance of mental health and shared practical wellness strategies. The session was interactive and well-received, sparking meaningful discussions. The participants were encouraged to ask questions, share experiences, and reflect on their roles in society. The event was not only informative but also motivational, building self-confidence and awareness among the young girls. By fostering knowledge in these crucial areas, the program laid the foundation for a more informed and empowered generation of women. The one-day event was a significant step toward ensuring gender equality and safety. Liferay Foundation remains committed to nurturing such impactful initiatives for social good. The event successfully combined education with empowerment, making National Girl Child Day a memorable occasion for all involved.
HOPE IN ACTION – Grocery Shop Renovation
BTG Trust supported a livelihood enhancement initiative through the renovation of a small grocery shop near Sitra Signal, Coimbatore, on 26th December 2023. The beneficiary, Mrs. Suji—a widow and sole breadwinner—relies entirely on this shop for her income. The shop had suffered significant structural damage, including a broken sunroof and leakage issues that affected daily operations and stock safety. To ensure Mrs. Suji could continue her business in a safer and more sustainable environment, BTG Trust facilitated the necessary repairs over two days. The support covered essential materials and labour, allowing her to restore the shop to a functional condition. This initiative aligns with BTG Trust’s mission to empower individuals through practical, needs-based interventions that promote economic stability and dignity.
CARE FOR ALL – Medical Camp 4
BTG Trust successfully organized Medical Camp – 4 at Government Primary School, Chinnathadagam in December 2023. This initiative aimed to provide accessible and cost-effective healthcare services to underserved communities. With KMCH Hospital, Coimbatore as the medical partner, the camp served around 150 beneficiaries. The camp focused on preventive care, diagnostic tests, and general health screenings. Chinnathadagam, a panchayat with over 5000 people, lacks easy access to healthcare facilities. Many residents are daily wage workers from underprivileged and tribal backgrounds. The camp helped bridge the healthcare gap caused by poor transport and medical access. BTG’s effort ensured that medical services reached those who need them most. This intervention promoted community health and early detection of health issues. It reflects our commitment to holistic well-being and inclusive development.
FOUNDER BIRTHDAY – Donation of Coat & Necessary Products
On November 18, 2023, in celebration of Mr. Bobby Balachandran’s birthday, BTG Trust carried out a meaningful outreach initiative at St. Joseph Home for the Aged & Destitute, Podanur, and Asissi Snehalaya, Ettimadai. This initiative was dedicated to improving the comfort and care of elderly residents in both homes. As part of the support, BTG Trust donated 10 new steel cots complete with pillows and bedsheets, along with two blood pressure monitors to help ensure regular health monitoring. A special lunch was organized for 75 residents at Asissi Snehalaya, and essential items were distributed across both homes, benefiting a total of 325 elderly individuals. This gesture not only honored Mr. Bobby Balachandran’s commitment to social responsibility but also reflected BTG Trust’s ongoing mission to uplift vulnerable communities with dignity and care.
AWARENESS GENERATION – Safety And Protection Of Children
On November 16, 2023, BTG Trust organized a Children’s Day celebration at Government Primary School, Chinnathadagam. The event aimed to raise awareness about child rights, safety, and education.In collaboration with Kumaraguru College of Arts and Science, an engaging educational workshop was held. The workshop targeted children aged 5–12, focusing on the concepts of good touch and bad touch.Interactive games were conducted to reinforce safety awareness among students. Students were encouraged to ask questions and openly share their thoughts. A live demonstration using a mannequin was included to explain safe and unsafe touches. The session helped build confidence and awareness among young children. Around 130 children benefited from the campaign. The program successfully combined learning and celebration in a meaningful way.