• Sagar Shirudkar
• March 24, 2025

Before Joining Helplife:
My name is Vandana Sonavane, and I reside in Nagpur, Maharashtra. I have a locomotor
disability with a degree of 60%. Despite my challenges, I have always lived my life with
positivity, believing I am like any other normal child. Growing up, my family consisted of six
members, including my father, mother, and two brothers. Our economic situation was stable until
my father became paralyzed, which shifted the family responsibilities onto my mother.
Due to my disability, I faced significant difficulties in accessing education. My family was
concerned that I would not be able to attend school, leading to a six-year gap in my education.
However, when I turned eleven, my mother enrolled me in school. I faced no further challenges
at that point, as I was placed in a hostel and returned home only during holidays.
After seventh grade, I had to leave school due to a delay in my admission. I attempted to enroll
in eighth grade at the age of eighteen but was denied admission, leading to feelings of despair
and depression. In response, I decided to pursue a three-year sewing course, which I
successfully completed. However, I lacked a sewing machine, which prevented me from
applying my skills practically.

After Joining Helplife:
Upon learning that Helplife provided sewing machines, I decided to join the organization. I believed that if I received a Piko sewing machine, my workload and income would significantly increase. I applied for a Piko machine and was fortunate to receive one. This allowed me to enhance my productivity and income potential. With the skills I acquired from my training and the new sewing machine, I began working as a seamstress. Initially, I faced challenges in acquiring materials, but I persevered. My earnings improved, allowing me to contribute to my family’s finances. My dream is to establish a small boutique and a Piko sewing centre where I can provide training to other women. I plan to charge less than the market rate for training to make it accessible to more individuals. Despite my disability, I am determined to fulfil my aspirations and inspire others to overcome their challenges. I firmly believe that no matter the obstacles we face in life, we must confront them and strive for success.