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Mishal Rizvi

Launch of Project Rise

In the small village of Chhichhrana, Israna Panipat, on the 14th of October 2023, a beacon of hope was unveiled. Project Rise (Rebuilding Independence and Social Enterprise for Bride Trafficking Survivors) made its debut, promising to make a profound impact on the lives of survivors. This transformative project, supported by IMD India and spearheaded by the tireless team at Empower People, is a testament to the unwavering faith in humanity's power to create positive change. Project Rise was born out of a deep understanding of the issues surrounding bride trafficking and gender inequality, driven by a strong desire to make a difference.




A Mission of Empowerment

At its core, Project Rise has a clear mission: to empower survivors of bride trafficking. It equips them with the essential tools, skills, and support needed to become successful entrepreneurs. The vision is one of a world where these survivors regain their independence, strength, and self-esteem, emerging as leaders in their own right. The project's primary goal is to provide sustainable income opportunities, effectively reducing their vulnerability to exploitation and ensuring they lead dignified lives.

Project Rise acknowledges that awareness is pivotal in the fight against bride trafficking. It strives to shed light on this issue and its root causes, working in collaboration with businesses to promote corporate social responsibility and create a market for the canvas bags produced by these resilient women.




The Unveiling: A Moment of Inspiration

During the project's launch event, key figures shared their dreams and objectives, igniting a sense of hope and determination. The project was jointly inaugurated by the visionary Founder of Empower People, Shafiq R. Khan, and the Zila Parishad member, Ms. Sudesh Arya, who added her support to this noble cause.




The event featured Ms. Asha Rani, Women's Station House Officer (SHO), who shared her inspiring success story. Her journey emphasized the pivotal role women's independence plays in reshaping societies, serving as a beacon of hope for those present at the launch event.



Mr. RV Subramanian, Director of IMD, expressed his company's unwavering commitment to eliminating bride trafficking and supporting survivors on their journey to independence, echoing the project's mission.



Mr. Suresh Tank and Ms. Upasana, highlighted the challenges women face in our society and the importance of raising awareness. They shared personal stories that demonstrated the transformative impact of financial independence on self-worth and confidence.



Advocate Ms. Chanchal from Panipat emphasized the importance of women understanding their rights and the laws enshrined in the Indian constitution that protect them. Empowerment begins with knowledge, and it is this knowledge that creates an environment supportive of women and their aspirations.



Mr. Sardar Satpal Singh from Jankalyan Society stressed the significance of the cause, and Mr. Om Prakash, the ex-sarpanch of village Chhichhrana, used the eloquence of poetry to convey powerful messages about gender inequality, touching the hearts of those in attendance.



The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Saroj, leaving everyone inspired and motivated to support Project Rise on its journey to transform lives and create a world where bride trafficking survivors can rise, rebuild, and reclaim their independence.



Survivor Solidarity Fund: A Beacon of Inspiration

In the backdrop of Project Rise's inspiring launch, the Survivor Solidarity Fund emerges as a unique and empowering initiative. This fund aims to inspire survivors of bride trafficking to come together and share their talents and hard-earned resources to liberate others from the clutches of oppression.



The Survivor Solidarity Fund recognizes the incredible potential within survivors to not only overcome their own ordeals but also to become beacons of hope for others. It is an initiative designed to foster a sense of solidarity and empowerment among survivors, encouraging them to use their talents and resources to free others from the chains of bride trafficking.


The Vision of Solidarity

The Survivor Solidarity Fund envisions a world where survivors join forces, leveraging their skills and resources to create a brighter future. By harnessing their unique experiences, talents, and hard-earned money, survivors can become the agents of change, liberating others from the shadows of oppression. It's a vision that puts the power to make a difference firmly in the hands of those who have walked the path of survival.




In this unique initiative, survivors are encouraged to pool their talents and resources to provide support, assistance, and a path to independence for those still entangled in the web of bride trafficking. The Survivor Solidarity Fund's mission is to inspire and empower survivors to lead the way in dismantling the chains of oppression and creating a world where every individual can stand with pride and dignity.


The Survivor Solidarity Fund is not just a fund; it's a symbol of resilience, hope, and unity. It signifies that survivors are not alone in their journey and that they have the power to change lives and bring about lasting positive change. In the spirit of Project Rise, let us stand together and support the Survivor Solidarity Fund as it paves the way for survivors to share their talents and resources, ultimately setting others free from the clutches of oppression. Together, we can create a world where the strength and determination of survivors bring about the change we all aspire to see.


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