YFLO Ahmedabad, under the leadership of Chairperson Neha Goyal, attended the ceremony, “Empowering Ragpicker Sisters: Beyond Charity, Towards Integration” at Suraksha Swachta Kendra, Shahibaug, Ahmedabad, to recognise ragpicker women as an important part of our society. This event is hosted by Paryavaran Mitra, an organisation dedicated to empowering ragpicker women across Ahmedabad. It included both profit sharing and an appreciation ceremony for appreciating the work of ragpicker women.
Chairperson Neha Goyal was invited as the Guest of Honour at the event. The event is aligned with YFLO Ahmedabad’s vision for Rural Impact – Outcome & Integration (RO-I) and their commitment to uplifting unseen communities.
Key Event Highlights
- Over 300+ ragpicker sisters were recognised and celebrated for their tireless contribution to waste management and urban cleanliness.
- The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Assistant Deputy Commissioner, signifying governmental recognition of their grassroots impact.
- Ms. Neha Goyal was invited to present the profit-sharing cheques and gifts to these inspiring women. It was an incredibly emotional and humbling experience.
Personal Contributions
In just one month as Chairperson, Ms. Neha Goyal is actively engaged in work that creates long-term outcomes:
- Donated 2 water coolers to their community centres to ensure health and comfort during the summer months.
- Initiated discussions around transforming their centres into tech-enabled hubs, which include: a digital weighing and payment system to bring transparency and fairness to their work. Training and integration of basic digital tools to empower their financial independence and dignity.
YFLO Ahmedabad ensures that ragpicker sisters are not seen as informal labourers but as essential environmental warriors. This initiative represents only the beginning of what YFLO Ahmedabad aims to do this year: create impact with integrity and outcomes that endure. This is just the beginning of building respect, skills, and sustainable growth for these inspiring women.