At just fourteen years old, Rima Akter carries responsibilities far heavier than her age. She lives in Bangladesh as the eldest of four siblings in a family struggling to survive on the edge of poverty. Every day of her childhood has been shaped by scarcity—scarcity of income, opportunities, and choices.

Rima once dreamed of staying in school like other girls her age. But extreme poverty forced her to leave her studies after completing primary education. With no other option, she began working as a domestic helper in other people’s homes to help keep food on the family’s table. While her hands worked tirelessly, her heart held onto a quiet but powerful dream—to one day stand on her own feet and change her family’s fate.

That dream found a path during a community survey conducted by Centre for Mass Education in Science (CMES) under the Empowering Women and Girls Project. Seeing Rima’s determination, interest, and vulnerable socio-economic condition, CMES selected her as a beneficiary and enrolled her in a three-month free Dress Making and Tailoring training.

For Rima, the training center was more than a classroom, it was a place of hope and dignity. She learned garment cutting and tailoring, tie-dye and block batik techniques, and practiced her skills through hands-on sessions. Alongside these technical lessons, she attended weekly awareness classes on women’s rights, prevention of gender-based violence, child marriage, and social protection. These sessions opened her eyes and strengthened her belief that she deserved a life free from fear and dependency.

Rima attended the training regularly, never missing a session despite household pressures. She completed the course successfully, and upon graduation, she received a sewing machine as start-up support. With the sewing machine set up in her home, Rima began a home-based tailoring business. At first, the orders were few, but her careful stitching, patience, and commitment slowly earned trust. Neighbors began to rely on her work, and soon she had regular clients within the community.

Today, Rima earns an average monthly income of BDT 8,000. With this income, she helps pay for her father’s medical treatment, contributes to household food expenses, and supports the education of her younger siblings. The girl who once worked in silence now plays a vital role in keeping her family stable.

Beyond income, Rima has gained confidence, respect, and a voice within her family. She now participates in decision-making and is recognized in her community as a hardworking, self-reliant young girl. She is no longer seen as a burden, but as a source of strength and hope.

Rima believes that access to free skills training and productive assets has transformed her life. Her journey reflects the deeper impact of the Empowering Women and Girls Project—showing that when girls are given opportunities, they uplift not only themselves but their entire families and communities.