Meet Deepa!

Since starting out in 2014, Secret Projects has trained over 500 women in six different states in India. With your help, we hope to be able to increase our impact and train even more women and provide them with access to the global market.

Find out what being part of Secret Projects has meant to Deepa…

Deepa, how did you start sewing?

I have always had an interest in sewing, and my husband supported me to become a seamstress. I have been sewing for more than 10 years.

What impact has being a maker had on you and your family?

We were living in a very dilapidated house without much space at home. But through my income, we were able to save up and move into a bigger house that could also accommodate my sewing. This means a lot to me. I feel a sense of gratitude for what I have and am able to do. I hope in the future I can scale up my impact even more.

And what about your wider community?

I live in an urban settlement in Bengaluru. Members of my community often find themselves in distressing situations, and many of them are single mothers. There is a high suicide rate, as they often see no future for themselves. I can proudly say that I have been able to train many of them to sew, and they have found a new lease of life. Initially, when I train them, we support each other in the sewing and share the income. Once they are confident enough, they set up their own sewing unit at home, but it takes a long time to be able to save up to own a sewing machine.

How does it compare to other jobs you have had?

I used to feel hopeless and un-productive when I was staying at home and only doing household chores. Now I feel that my life is so meaningful.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

I grew up in a small village. People there are very hard working but don’t have access to many job opportunities. I am keen to take Secret Projects to my village and share the opportunity that I have had with other community members. That would make me really happy to be able to do that.

What would you like to say to the customers at Secret Projects?

I want to thank the customers and say that your purchases at the international market has boosted my self-confidence and the confidence of the other makers in my group. Being part of this project has brought hope into our lives to do great things.