Strength in Adversity: Chandana’s Rise as a Leader and Mother

Joyya empowers women like Chandana with skills, education, and support to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.

In 2008, Chandana was searching for work during a difficult time for her family when she heard about a new bag-making business. Unsure if she would qualify, she applied —and that decision changed everything. At Joyya, she found more than a job; she found the opportunity to learn and grow. Under the guidance of her trainer, she mastered sewing, pattern-making, and even writing Bangla. Gaining confidence, she moved from sewing bags to T-shirts, embracing each new challenge.

As Chandana worked, she observed the supervisors and realized she wanted to take on that role. With determination and continuous learning, she earned the promotion she had dreamed of.

At the same time, her daughter encouraged her to learn English, telling her how useful it would be. Inspired, she began studying during her lunch breaks with a tutor. When Joyya opened a learning center, she eagerly signed up for classes. Now, she can watch cricket and understand the commentary—something that amazed her daughter and filled her with pride.

The opportunities Joyya provided Chandana changed her life in many ways, but it was the support she received during her hardest moments that meant the most. When her husband passed away, she struggled, but Joyya stood beside her, offering encouragement and practical help. Her daughter was able to stay in school, sit her exams, and now, with Joyya’s support, she is attending college.

Today, Chandana carries the responsibility of providing for her family, and she does so with pride. Her daughter dreams of learning the guitar, and she has promised that once her studies are complete, she can join the Joyya Guitar course, and she will buy her one.

Chandana’s journey with Joyya is far from over. She is eager to continue learning—Excel, more English—and one day, she hopes to be promoted to a production assistant. More than anything, she dreams of seeing her daughter succeed in a good job, knowing that she helped make it possible.

Looking back, she is proud of how far she has come. With Joyya’s support, she has grown in confidence, built a better future for her family, and discovered her own strength. Together, they have navigated challenges, and together, they have emerged stronger.