ACCELERATING ACTION FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH AND EMPOWERMENT

As the world celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, a quiet yet powerful revolution was unfolding in Natrajpuram, Chengalpattu, Chennai. Solidaridad, in partnership with Equitas Bank and funded by the European Union under the SWITCH ASIA project, hosted a transformative Medical Camp at Alina Private Limited (AVT Pvt Ltd), Guindy. This initiative, part of the Promoting Circularity in Tamil Nadu Leather Clusters for Solid Waste Management project, not only addressed the health needs of women workers but also laid the foundation for their long-term empowerment. 

Prioritising Women’s Health: A Cornerstone of Empowerment 

The medical camp was more than just a health check-up—it was a statement. Over 100 women from small and medium tanning units in the leather supply chain received free health screenings, expert consultations, and personalised counselling. From diagnostic services to awareness sessions on preventive care, the camp tackled critical health concerns that often go unaddressed in busy working lives. 

For many of these women, this was their first encounter with comprehensive healthcare. “We often neglect our health because of work and family responsibilities. This camp reminded me that my well-being matters too,” shared one participant. 

The initiative underscores a vital truth: women’s health is not just a personal issue but an economic imperative. A healthier workforce translates to higher productivity, safer workplaces, and a more resilient ecosystem for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). By prioritising women’s well-being, Solidaridad and its partners are not only improving individual lives but also strengthening the backbone of the leather industry. 

Skill Development: Paving the Way for Green Jobs 

Beyond health, the event marked the launch of an ambitious skill development programme aimed at empowering 300 unemployed women. In collaboration with industry leaders like the Leather Sector Skill Council (LSSC), Council for Leather Exports (CLE), and Tata International, among others, the programme offers 200 hours of specialised training. 

This initiative is designed to equip women with the skills needed to thrive in the leather industry, particularly in green jobs that promote sustainability. From waste management to eco-friendly production techniques, the training opens doors to meaningful employment while addressing the gender gap in the workforce. 

“This programme is not just about jobs; it’s about creating opportunities for women to lead in a sustainable future,” said a representative from Solidaridad. 

Aligning with Global Goals 

The initiative aligns seamlessly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By focusing on health (SDG 3), gender equality (SDG 5), and decent work (SDG 8), Solidaridad and its partners are contributing to a global vision of inclusivity and sustainability. 

The medical camp and skill development programme are more than isolated efforts—they are part of a larger movement to create a more equitable and sustainable leather industry. By empowering women with health resources and job skills, the project is fostering a culture of resilience and self-reliance. 

A Call to Accelerate Action 

As Venkaiah Vadlamudi, Representative of Solidaridad, aptly put it, “The theme ‘Accelerate Action’ is a reminder that empowering women is not just a moral obligation but a necessity for sustainable development. Their health and well-being are fundamental to the growth of MSMEs and the broader economy.” 

The event in Chennai was a testament to the power of collaboration. By bringing together healthcare providers, industry leaders, and community organisations, Solidaridad and its partners have set a precedent for holistic interventions that address both immediate needs and long-term aspirations. 

A Healthier, More Inclusive Future 

As the sun set on International Women’s Day 2025, the women of Natrajpuram left the medical camp with more than just health reports—they left with a renewed sense of hope and possibility. The skill development programme promises to further this momentum, equipping women with the tools to build sustainable careers and contribute to a greener economy. 

This initiative is a reminder that empowering women is not a one-time effort but a continuous journey. By prioritising their health, skills, and economic participation, we are not only transforming individual lives but also shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.