New Delhi: Since its founding in 2019, the Women Education and Empowerment Trust (TWEET) has empowered 8,257 women and now aims to reach 50,000 more in the next three years. TWEET also announced plans to host a National Women NGOs Conclave in April 2025 to foster capacity building, collaboration, and effective resource utilisation.
At a press conference held here Sunday, TWEET’s Chairperson, Rahamathunnissa A. shared the organisation’s vision to promote social and economic empowerment of women, enabling them to lead dignified lives with equal participation in society. She emphasised TWEET’s mission to support women in need, tackle the root causes of women’s issues, and offer comprehensive support through multifaceted initiatives.
A five-year progress report was also presented, with highlights of the programmes and areas where women have benefited under TWEET’s initiatives.
Educational Empowerment:
TWEET believes that education is the foundation of empowerment. The organisation offers merit-based scholarships for girls to pursue higher education at prestigious institutions domestically and abroad. The one-year campaign “Freedom from Illiteracy” from August 2022 to July 2023 mobilised educated women to teach non-literate women nationwide, extending literacy to underserved communities.
Economic Empowerment:
To promote economic independence, TWEET supports small business ventures such as boutiques, tiffin services, and cosmetic shops, as well as home-based businesses like detergent units. TWEET’s support has empowered many women to become self-sufficient, enabling them to start sustainable businesses. Moreover, training sessions equip women with skills to establish their own start-ups, creating additional income for their families.
Emotional and Financial Support to Widows:
Recognising the challenges faced by women who have lost their spouses, TWEET provides counselling and financial support, ensuring they can live dignified lives.
Mahila Help Desk
This initiative empowers women by raising awareness about various government welfare schemes and guiding them to access these benefits. This programme helps women achieve financial stability by utilising government support for their livelihoods, paving the way toward a dignified and self-sufficient life.
Life Skills and Safety Programmes:
Collaborating with Special Police Unit for Women and Children, Delhi Police, TWEET conducted self-defence training programmes for girls and women. Through sensitisation initiatives, TWEET raises awareness about women’s rights and social issues, including domestic violence, empowering women to advocate for themselves and their communities.
TWEET provides internship opportunities for female students from diverse disciplines and has also established a hostel to support both students and working women.
The press meet was also addressed by TWEET General Secretary Shaista Rafat, and Treasurer Dr. Sharnas Muthu.
TWEET also announced the unanimous election of the following trustees as office-bearers for the next three-year term.
Chairperson: Rahamathunnissa A, an educationist, writer, and trainer
Vice Chairperson: Zeba Zaferali Baig, a social worker and counselling expert
General Secretary: Shaista Rafat, an expert in grassroots development
Secretary: Rajeena Beegum, an educationist and social worker
Treasurer: Dr. Sharnas Muthu, specializing in psycho-social and legal support
The extended team includes Khalida Parveen, a social worker; Dr. Jueria Reemi, a healthcare specialist, and Fakhira Atheeqe, a social entrepreneur working with women and children with special needs.
