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Our Journey
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
Tote Avakasham is more than just a name, it’s a statement of purpose. Tote represents the tote bags that form the foundation of our initiative, crafted by the women we empower. Avakasham translates to right, symbolizing the fundamental right of every woman to think beyond societal limitations and redefine her future.
Our tagline, Right to Think Outside the Box, reflects our mission, not just to provide financial independence but to spark conversations and challenge norms. Each tote bag is more than a product; it carries a message. Through thoughtfully designed graphics, we transform every bag into an awareness campaign, amplifying voices and inspiring change, one stitch at a time.
Our Story
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
Tote Avakasham was born from a shared vision between two childhood friends who grew up in the heart of Wayanad. Having witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by women in our homes and communities, we were deeply aware of the systemic barriers that hindered their progress.
Our academic journeys took us to some of the finest institutions, allowing us to explore our respective fields and gain valuable expertise. Yet, with every step forward, we became increasingly aware that the gap between privileged and underprivileged women was only widening. This realization led us to a profound question: If our education and opportunities do not empower the very communities that shaped us, what is their true worth?
Through our experiences interning with various NGOs, we saw the deep-rooted challenges that women face—challenges that are not isolated but interconnected. These experiences reinforced our belief that true empowerment goes beyond temporary solutions; it requires sustainable, systemic change.
With this conviction, Tote Avakasham was founded to create opportunities, bridge the gaps, and ensure that women are not just seen but truly empowered. Our mission is to foster communities where every woman can realize her potential and contribute meaningfully to a more just and harmonious society.
What We Do
The Etimology of ToteAvakasham: Think outside the Bag
What We Do
Empowerment isn’t just about skill building,it’s about creating opportunities. While many NGOs in Wayanad have equipped women in Wayanad with sewing machines, many still struggle to generate a stable income due to the lack of market access. That’s where we come in.
Through surveys and home visits across various hamlets in Wayanad, we discovered that many homebound women have the skills but not the means to earn. We saw an opportunity to bridge this gap by training them to stitch tote bags a simple yet impactful way to create employment.
We conduct workshops, refine their stitching techniques, and design bags tailored to market demand. Every bag they craft is sold, ensuring a steady income stream. For every piece stitched, they earn directly turning their skills into sustainable livelihoods.
By connecting their craftsmanship with the right market, we are building a self-sustaining ecosystem where women gain financial independence, confidence and the power to transform their futures, one stitch at a time.
Our Allied Team
Mary Chilembwe
Aleesha Mary Joseph
Mary Chilembwe
Malawi
Aleesha Mary Joseph
Aleesha Mary Joseph
Aleesha Mary Joseph
United Kingdom
Arun William
Arun William
Aleesha Mary Joseph
Bangalore, India
Migdha Nizam
Arun William
Migdha Nizam
Calicut, India
Arihant Jain
Arun William
Migdha Nizam
Bangalore, India
