Shakira’s journey highlights the transformative power of self-belief and the practical skills gained through CYDA’s support. With the tools and knowledge from the program, she broke free from the cycle of financial instability and exhaustion. Today, Shakira stands stronger and more confident, with a renewed sense of hope as she looks toward a brighter future.
The struggles of everyday life
Shakira Irfan Mulani, a 31-year-old woman from Wadarwadi, always dreamed of providing a better life for her family. Living in a modest home with her husband and children, Shakira constantly faced the unpredictability of financial hardships. Her husband, though hardworking, earned just enough to cover the essential expenses. But with rising costs of living, even the basics seemed out of reach.
We were always struggling to make ends meet,” Shakira shared, her voice tinged with the weight of the years. “I would wake up every day with the same fear—would we have enough for today, let alone tomorrow?” – shared Shakira
The challenge was compounded by Shakira’s own health issues. Frequent hospital visits drained both her energy and finances, leaving her feeling trapped in a cycle of stress and exhaustion. But despite the overwhelming pressure, Shakira never gave up. She wanted to do more—for herself and for her children—but felt stuck.
“I knew I had to break free from this, but I did not know where to start,” she admitted. The uncertainty of her situation often made her wonder if change was even possible.
The Turning Point:
Shakira’s life began to change when she enrolled in CYDA’s 6-day soft skills training program, a decision that would open up new possibilities for her. The training focused on essential skills like communication, time management, and financial literacy—all of which were crucial for balancing her demanding home life and her role as a computer operator. The training gave her valuable tools for improving her professional life and also taught her how to manage her finances better, something that had always been a struggle.
The daily balancing act
While Shakira’s newfound skills gave her a sense of hope, the journey was still far from easy. As a full-time computer operator, Shakira’s work schedule was demanding. After a long day at the office, she would come home exhausted only to face the mountain of household chores waiting for her. But the lessons she learned in the CYDA program helped her push through. Shakira discovered the importance of time management and how to avoid letting stress consume her. In CYDA, she found ways to balance her responsibilities at work and at home. The key, she realized, was not just about managing time—it was about managing energy, setting realistic expectations, and seeking support when needed.
One of the most significant changes in Shakira’s life came from her husband. Inspired by her newfound sense of purpose and her ability to balance everything so effectively, he began to share the load at home. He took on tasks like cooking, cleaning, and other household responsibilities, which had traditionally been her sole responsibility. This shift in dynamics greatly alleviated the emotional and physical burden on Shakira, allowing her to focus more on her personal growth and career without feeling overwhelmed.
The fruits of her hard work
The transformation in Shakira’s life was profound. Not only did she gained confidence in her role as a computer operator, but she also began to experience a sense of stability and satisfaction in her job. Her monthly salary of Rs.14,000/- now allowed her to provide a better quality of life for her family. She is able to save Rs.500/- every month for her children’s education and Rs.10/- every day as savings.
“Thanks to CYDA, I have learnt how to manage my life better,” Shakira said, smiling at the future. Project: NTL – Transcending limitations of job opportunities for women and facilitate remunerative income, as well as a sense of confidence and identity for the women learner
Her journey may not have been easy, but Shakira now knows that no challenge is insurmountable when armed with the right tools and the determination to succeed. ( This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation Officer at CYDA)
