In Sitamarhi, EVA Foundation set up a sewing training centre called “Zubeda”. The aim was to empower young girls from rural, Dalit, and minority communities by teaching them practical skills and helping them become self-reliant. At this centre, students undergo a four-month hands-on sewing training where they learn to operate sewing machines, cut fabric, stitch clothes, and even design patterns.
One of the shining examples of this centre’s success is Noorun, a young woman from a minority background. She first heard about the Zubeda Training Centre through a friend. Before joining, Noorun’s life was mostly confined within the walls of her home, with no exposure to skills like sewing. Reaching the centre itself was not easy — she had to cross a canal every day, and with no transport facility available, the journey was tough. During the rainy season, it became even more challenging. But determined to learn, Noorun never gave up and attended her training regularly.
After four months of hard work and consistent practice, Noorun’s life began to change. Today, she can operate the sewing machine with confidence and has started stitching her own clothes. Earlier, she would spend money to get her clothes stitched by others, but now she saves that money by doing it herself. What’s more, people from nearby villages now come to her with their clothes to be stitched. Sewing has become not just a skill, but also a source of income, giving her financial independence and new confidence.
As she proudly says:
“This skill has been very useful for me. Earlier, I used to give my clothes to other tailors and spend money. Now, I stitch my own and even earn a little by stitching for others. That makes me feel independent and confident.”
Before the training, Noorun was educated but limited in confidence and productivity. Today, her economic condition has improved, she has gained a valuable skill, and most importantly, she has become self-reliant. Sewing has given her not only financial benefits but also dignity and a stronger sense of self-worth.
The Zubeda Skill Development Centre by EVA Foundation is bringing such positive change in the lives of many young girls like Noorun. It is not just about teaching a craft, but about building independence, confidence, and a brighter future. Noorun’s story shows how the right mix of struggle and opportunity can transform lives — all it took was a sewing machine and four months of dedication to turn her into a confident, capable, and future-ready woman.