Manju Gurung
Stitching Dreams, Weaving Opportunities: Manju's Handicraft Legacy
Manju Gurung, the founder of Manju Handicrafts Training Center in Tilottama-11, Rupandehi, has been an inspirational figure in promoting entrepreneurship among women in her community. Although her journey officially began in 2073 B.S. (2016 A.D.) with the formal registration of her firm, her passion for handicrafts dates back to earlier days when she made various items like dolls, cushions, and gift items at home using simple household equipment.
Manju's dedication to formalizing her craft led her to establish the Manju Handicrafts Training Center, where she and her husband, Subodh Shrestha, work together. Manju conducts training programs for women, while Subodh facilitates sessions focused on men's clothing and other products. Since its inception, the center has trained over 8,000 to 10,000 women, providing them with the skills needed to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures or enhance their personal lives.
Starting with a modest investment of NPR 3,500, Manju faced numerous challenges, including limited financial resources and the need to build a reputation in the community. Despite these hurdles, her unwavering commitment and the quality of her training programs enabled the center to grow. Today, the value of the training center has reached NPR 400,000, a significant growth and success.
The Manju Handicrafts Training Center not only offers training but also produces a wide range of products, such as dolls, cushions, toys, ladies' sandals, kitchen shoes, grass garlands, bangles, beaded necklaces, and handkerchiefs. This diversification has opened new opportunities for income generation and market expansion. Manju and her team are currently working on a new project to produce and market laptop bags, showcasing their continuous innovation and growth mindset.
The center now generates a monthly income of around NPR 90,000, with a net profit of NPR 30,000 to 40,000 after expenses. The center provides regular employment to six individuals, including four full-time and two part-time workers. Additionally, 30 to 40 women trained by Manju have become entrepreneurs themselves, registering their own firms and contributing to the local economy.
Even those who have not started their own businesses have benefited from the training, using their skills to produce items for personal use or as gifts. This empowerment has fostered a sense of self-reliance and creativity among the women in the community, reflecting a positive and transformative impact.
Manju's journey exemplifies a growth mindset, characterized by continuous learning, resilience, and innovation. From humble beginnings to running a successful training center, Manju's story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of supporting grassroots entrepreneurship. Her vision for future expansion, including the launch of a new outlet in the Manigram area, demonstrates her commitment to further growth and community development.
Through her efforts, Manju Gurung has not only achieved personal and professional success but also created a ripple effect of empowerment and entrepreneurship among the women of her community. Her story serves as an inspiring example of how one individual's dedication can lead to significant positive change, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all.