Over the years, the YWCA of India has provided leadership training from grassroots to managerial levels for young women activists, leaders, volunteers and staff, equipping them to take on leadership challenges in response to the critical development needs of women and girls.
In recent years, the rapid pace of technological change and the influence of new social, political and economic trends on marginalized communities have prompted the Movement to examine new realities and emerging concerns affecting the holistic development of women. To remain focused and responsive to these changes, the YWCA has reviewed its mission and development priorities and has taken a more active advocacy role on issues of social development, with particular attention to young women and children.
The Women’s Leadership Project emerged following a baseline survey of 50 households that examined household income, household size, sources of livelihood, interests and aspirations. Rapport was built with communities in two slums for the purpose of the programme. Focus group discussions were conducted with participants, and the objectives of the project were shared with the groups.