Ragini* was rescued from the red light area when she was 13 years old. Her mother is still working as a sex worker, so Ragini and her younger sister grew up with NGOs. She went back into education and completed her 10th standard (high school).
Ragini had always wanted to secure a job in the hospitality industry so she could become independent. When she was 19, she learned about the youth employment programme through local NGO Kherwadi Social Welfare Association and enrolled in April 2021.
The programme, which is supported by the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery with funded provided by the United States government, started with classes using the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance curriculum which gives trainees the core skills they need to get started on their career journeys.
“Due to the pandemic, the classroom training was conducted online. The trainer made sure to give us a good learning experience and solved our doubts. We would have group discussions and role-plays during the sessions. I was able to interact freely with other students who were also part of the training.”
“I learned more about the hospitality industry, taking care of guests, interview and communication skills. Most importantly, it has personally taught me to give interviews and work on areas that required improvement.”
Ragini completed the one-month online training and is now putting her new skills into practice in on-the-job training at a local hotel in housekeeping.
“The training has made me employable and capable to be part of the housekeeping team in a hotel. I am learning how to maintain hygiene and provide service to guests. This training has prepared me to be confident, speak up and make eye contact which I was lacking before.”
“I feel self-motivated, excited, and willing to learn.”
“I like speaking to people. I wanted to make a career in guest relations but would often be afraid to make a good impression. This program has helped me to increase my knowledge and sharpen my communication skills. I feel happy and confident.”
“I see myself as a successful person in the future.”
*Name changed to protect identity
