For over two decades, Nirmala Devi has called Khidirpur in Kolkata, India, her home. Originally from Uttar Pradesh, she moved with her husband and five children in search of better opportunities. But in 2021, when her husband lost his job during the COVID-19 lockdown, the family’s financial stability collapsed. 

With no steady income and rising household expenses, daily survival became uncertain. In response, Nirmala took a risk and started a small tea shop, despite having little prior business experience. 

In 2023, she joined a Trickle Up livelihood program, WINGS, and learned essential business skills such as financial planning and enterprise management. These tools helped her in running her shop, while identifying opportunities for improvement. 

“The training helped me understand how to manage my shop better, and now I feel confident running it by myself,” Nirmala says. After some time, she began to strengthen her business operations and expand her offerings by introducing snacks alongside tea; a simple change that helped her attract more customers and increase her income. 

Today, Nirmala independently manages her enterprise and makes daily business decisions with confidence. Her earnings now contribute significantly to her household, and she plays a more active role in family decision-making. “The business has given me financial independence and the confidence to plan for my family’s future,” she shares. 

“Nirmala’s journey shows how women can transform a difficult situation into an opportunity when they receive the right support and training,” a community member reflects. What began as a response to crisis became a sustainable source of income and a foundation for future growth.