Breaking norms: How Vineeta became her village’s first woman electrician

In a small village in Uttar Pradesh, 24-year-old Vineeta is challenging expectations and lighting the way for other women. She is the only female electrician in her village, running a repair shop from her home, a role traditionally held by men.

Vineeta’s journey has not been easy. She completed Grade 10 but had to leave school due to financial constraints. Married at 17, she lives with her husband, in-laws, and two young children. Her husband works as a mason, her six-year-old son attends UKG, and her three-year-old daughter goes to an Anganwadi centre.

Initially, Vineeta tried stitching and small tailoring jobs, but the work was irregular and insufficient. Everything changed when Pratham introduced her to a nearby Community Camp offering an electrical course, a door she never knew existed. These camps bring vocational training close to home, offering short-term skill development and certification that connects learners with local employment opportunities.

Her family was sceptical at first. Her husband and in-laws insisted she stay home, but Vineeta’s determination won through. On her first day of training in 2024, her husband accompanied her, and she began attending classes regularly.

Neighbours were doubtful too. “This is a man’s job,” they said. “What will you do with this training?” Vineeta persevered despite the criticism. “I had stopped eating because of all the negative comments. But I was determined to show up for class every day,” she recalls.

Ten days into the course, Vineeta’s skills began to speak for themselves. A neighbour’s cooler broke, and she fixed it. Soon, more villagers sought her help with fans, irons, heaters, and other household appliances.

After completing the two-month course, Vineeta opened her own electrical repair shop. Today, she is the go-to electrician in her village and recently handled Diwali lighting for a government building. She continues her education and inspires young girls in her community to pursue their own skills and dreams.

Reflecting on her journey, Vineeta says: “If we believe in ourselves, we can do anything. I used to be afraid of electrical work, but now I work with confidence. The same people who once said this was a man’s job now appreciate my work and come to me for repairs.”

Vineeta’s story is a powerful example of how access to skills and opportunity can transform lives. With Pratham’s Community Camps, women like Vineeta are breaking norms, building independence, and inspiring their communities.