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Empowering Rural Women: Manjulaben’s Inspiring Journey of Leadership in Dahod

Manjulaben P. Bariya, a 31-year-old tribal woman from Bariya Faliya in Ghodazar village (Dhanpur block, Dahod), stands as a powerful example of how courage and determination can transform communities. Despite limited formal education and the responsibilities of a joint family, agricultural work, childcare, and seasonal migration, Manjulaben has always carried a deep desire to support the women around her. This inner drive led her to join the Vanita Shakti Mahila Sangathan, a federation nurtured by Utthan to strengthen women’s collective power, leadership, and access to rights.

 

Over the past four years, Manjulaben’s journey has blossomed into one of unwavering commitment and hands-on community leadership. Actively participating in cluster meetings, justice committee trainings, hamlet meetings, Gram Sabha sessions, and livelihood-related gatherings, she has equipped herself with knowledge on gender-based violence, case documentation, government schemes, and social security entitlements. Today, she not only guides women and adolescent girls but also assists families in navigating government offices, securing necessary documents, and understanding legal processes. Her presence in the VDC and Gram Sabha has also encouraged other women to speak up, attend meetings, and bring forward their concerns with confidence.

 

Manjulaben’s work goes beyond social issues—she plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable farming and goat-rearing practices among village women, helping them build resilient livelihoods. Her leadership beautifully showcases what community-driven empowerment can achieve. Through her tireless efforts, she has become a beacon of strength and hope in Ghodazar, uplifting not just her own family but the entire community. Her story proves that when one woman rises with purpose, the entire village moves forward.