The Silk Thread Jewellery Making training program held on 13th February 2025 at Pullukadu Housing Unit aimed to empower women and adolescent girls from slum communities by equipping them with creative, income-generating skills. With 8 participants, this one-day workshop introduced the art of crafting elegant bangles, earrings, hair accessories, and clips using vibrant silk threads and simple tools. Designed especially for homemakers and students, the program offered step-by-step, beginner-friendly guidance to build both creativity and confidence. The training not only focused on technical skills but also included insights into material sourcing, color coordination, and product finishing. Emphasis was placed on understanding customer preferences, particularly for bridal and festive designs, making the craft more commercially viable. Participants also learned the basics of entrepreneurship—how to price their products, market them effectively, and explore sales through exhibitions and online platforms. The session highlighted the potential of silk thread jewellery as a low-investment, home-based business opportunity. Through hands-on learning, participants gained valuable exposure to product development and design planning. Many expressed a strong interest in continuing their learning journey and turning their new skills into micro-enterprises. The program proved to be a powerful step in promoting self-employment, financial independence, and sustainable livelihoods for underserved women. It demonstrated how grassroots training initiatives can unlock economic self-reliance, encouraging participants to embrace entrepreneurship as a pathway to empowerment and growth.
HANDMADE HEROINES 9 – Silk Thread Jewellery Making
On February 13th, 2025, a one-day Entrepreneurship Development Training on Silk Thread Jewellery Making was held at Pullukadu Housing Unit, aiming to empower underserved women through creative skill-building. With 8 enthusiastic participants, the workshop focused on providing practical, hands-on training to craft beautiful bangles, earrings, hair accessories, and decorative clips using vibrant silk threads and basic tools. Designed especially for homemakers and adolescent girls from slum areas, this training introduced a livelihood-oriented craft that requires minimal investment but offers high potential for self-employment. Through step-by-step demonstrations, participants learned essential jewellery-making techniques, including design composition, material selection, color coordination, and product finishing. Beyond crafting, the session also educated women on pricing, marketing, and selling their products—offering valuable insights into turning creative hobbies into micro-enterprises. The workshop emphasized creating elegant and market-friendly designs suited for both daily and festive occasions, encouraging women to take pride in their handmade creations. Participants were also introduced to the basics of product development and entrepreneurial planning, including sourcing raw materials and identifying consumer preferences. The training successfully fostered creativity, confidence, and a spirit of enterprise among the attendees. Most importantly, the women expressed excitement and a renewed sense of purpose, with many eager to pursue advanced training and business opportunities. This initiative reaffirmed the power of grassroots-level capacity building in transforming lives by nurturing self-reliance and economic independence. One participant shared, “The class was empowering. I never imagined I could learn so much in a day. I now feel confident to use these skills to earn a living.” By equipping women with such practical tools, the training program paves the way for sustainable livelihood creation and inclusive development in vulnerable communities.
HOPE IN ACTION – Raincoat Distribution to South Indian Cine & Small Screen Union
The Raincoat Distribution Initiative, held on 9th February 2025 at the South Indian Cine & Small Screen Union in Chennai, was a thoughtful effort by BTG Trust with sponsorship from BTG Universal Pvt. Ltd. Aimed at supporting 277 women working in challenging outdoor conditions in the South Indian film and television industry, the event provided raincoats to help them stay protected during the monsoon and other wet conditions. These women, who play vital behind-the-scenes roles, often go unrecognized and face harsh weather without adequate protection. The initiative not only addressed a basic yet essential need but also aimed to raise awareness about the difficulties faced by women in the industry. With official recognition from FEFSI and support from the Cine Union, the event stood as a symbol of dignity, safety, and respect for women working tirelessly in the entertainment sector.
HOPE IN ACTION – SAFE DAYS
On 07.02.2025, BTG Trust, with support from Exterro and in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department, implemented the HopeInAction – #SafeDays initiative at Government Higher Secondary School, Somandurai, Chittur. Two sanitary napkin vending machines were installed, directly benefiting 247 girl students. Alongside, a menstrual hygiene awareness session was conducted, equipping students with essential knowledge and promoting a stigma-free environment.
HOPE IN ACTION – Safe Days
Hope in Action – Safe Days is a transformative initiative led by BTG Trust in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department and sponsored by Exterro, aimed at empowering schoolgirls through menstrual hygiene awareness. On 7th February 2025, the project was successfully implemented at Government Higher Secondary School, Divansapudur, Pollachi, benefiting 279 girl students. A sanitary napkin vending machine was installed to provide easy and private access to essential hygiene products. The initiative addressed the urgent need for menstrual hygiene infrastructure in schools. An educational session was conducted to promote awareness about safe menstrual practices. Topics included proper hygiene, safe disposal methods, and debunking menstrual myths. The program encouraged open dialogue between students and teachers, fostering a stigma-free environment. Through interactive awareness sessions, students gained confidence and critical knowledge. BTG Trust also provided a live demonstration on using the vending machine effectively. The collaboration ensured sustainability and smooth execution of the project. The initiative empowered young girls with information and resources for their well-being. It also aimed to eliminate societal taboos and misconceptions about menstruation. The sessions helped create a healthier and more inclusive school culture. The vending machine promotes dignity and self-care among schoolgirls. This step ensures that students don’t miss school due to lack of menstrual supplies. The project stands as a model for menstrual hygiene education in schools. It contributes to better academic participation and emotional well-being. “Safe Days” aligns with larger goals of health equity and female empowerment. The support from Exterro enabled practical impact through corporate social responsibility. BTG Trust remains committed to expanding this impactful program across more schools. The initiative is a powerful reminder of how health education can change lives.
HOPE IN ACTION -SAFE DAYS
On 07.02.2025, BTG Trust implemented its flagship initiative, HopeInAction – SafeDays, at MG Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Kottur, Pollachi, benefiting 595 girl students. Supported by Exterro and in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department, the program focused on promoting menstrual hygiene through the installation of a sanitary napkin vending machine and awareness sessions. This initiative not only ensured continuous access to hygiene products but also empowered students with vital knowledge, helping reduce stigma, encourage school attendance, and foster a healthier, more inclusive learning environment.
HOPE IN ACTION – SAFE DAYS
On 07.02.2025, BTG Trust, with support from Exterro and the Tamil Nadu Education Department, installed a sanitary napkin vending machine at Government Higher Secondary School, Sethumadai. The initiative benefited 127 girls by improving access to menstrual hygiene products and raising awareness about menstrual health, empowering students and promoting school attendance.
HOPE IN ACTION – SAFE DAYS
On 07.02.2025, BTG Trust, in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Education Department and sponsored by Exterro, implemented the “HopeInAction – #SafeDays” program at VRT Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Annaimalai. The initiative installed sanitary napkin vending machines, ensuring easy and private access to menstrual hygiene products for 1,268 students. Comprehensive awareness sessions educated students on menstrual health and hygiene, helping to break social stigmas. This program promotes empowerment, improves school attendance, and sets a sustainable model for menstrual hygiene management through collaborative efforts.
HOPE IN ACTION – Safe Days
The Hope in Action – Safe Days initiative, led by BTG Trust and supported by Exterro in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department, marks a vital step toward improving menstrual hygiene among schoolgirls. Launched at Government Higher Secondary School, Sundapalayam, this impactful project benefited 275 girl students by addressing menstrual health challenges through the installation of a sanitary napkin vending machine. This ensured that students had consistent, private, and easy access to essential hygiene products. In addition to infrastructure, educational sessions were conducted to spread awareness on menstrual hygiene management, best practices, safe disposal methods, and to debunk harmful myths. These interactive sessions fostered open discussions, reduced stigma, and created a supportive environment for students. Representatives from BTG Trust also conducted hands-on demonstrations to guide students on proper machine usage, empowering them with confidence. This initiative promotes not just hygiene, but dignity and well-being among young girls. The program highlights the power of collaborative partnerships between NGOs, corporates, and government bodies. It emphasizes the need for sustainability and continued support in menstrual health programs. The project serves as a model for similar initiatives across other schools and regions. By addressing menstrual taboos and creating awareness, it breaks barriers that hinder girls’ education and participation. The positive impact goes beyond hygiene—it uplifts confidence, attendance, and long-term health outcomes. Such interventions are crucial for fostering equality and ensuring no girl is left behind due to a lack of basic menstrual care. Hope in Action – Safe Days is not just a program; it’s a movement for change. It reflects the core values of community-driven development and inclusivity. With strategic partnerships and dedicated implementation, this initiative ensures every girl experiences safe, stigma-free periods. The success at Sundapalayam showcases what can be achieved when resources meet the right intent. Together, we can create a future where menstrual health is a right, not a privilege. This mission continues, one school at a time, empowering girls to learn, grow, and thrive with dignity.
HOPE IN ACTION – Safe Days
Hope in Action – Safe Days is a transformative initiative led by BTG Trust in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department and sponsored by Exterro, aimed at empowering schoolgirls through menstrual hygiene awareness. On 5th February 2025, the project was successfully implemented at Corporation Higher Secondary School, Okkiliyarcolony benefiting 136 girl students. A sanitary napkin vending machine was installed to provide easy and private access to essential hygiene products. The initiative addressed the urgent need for menstrual hygiene infrastructure in schools. An educational session was conducted to promote awareness about safe menstrual practices. Topics included proper hygiene, safe disposal methods, and debunking menstrual myths. The program encouraged open dialogue between students and teachers, fostering a stigma-free environment. Through interactive awareness sessions, students gained confidence and critical knowledge. BTG Trust also provided a live demonstration on using the vending machine effectively. The collaboration ensured sustainability and smooth execution of the project. The initiative empowered young girls with information and resources for their well-being. It also aimed to eliminate societal taboos and misconceptions about menstruation. The sessions helped create a healthier and more inclusive school culture. The vending machine promotes dignity and self-care among schoolgirls. This step ensures that students don’t miss school due to lack of menstrual supplies. The project stands as a model for menstrual hygiene education in schools. It contributes to better academic participation and emotional well-being. “Safe Days” aligns with larger goals of health equity and female empowerment. The support from Exterro enabled practical impact through corporate social responsibility. BTG Trust remains committed to expanding this impactful program across more schools. The initiative is a powerful reminder of how health education can change lives.