International Women’s Day 2025: Celebrating the women shaping tomorrow through education with Pratham
This International Women’s Day, Pratham UK is proud to shine a light on the incredible women we have worked with who are breaking barriers, challenging expectations, and inspiring future generations through the power of education and opportunity.
At Pratham UK, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for gender equality. When girls have access to quality learning opportunities, they not only gain knowledge—they gain confidence, independence, and the ability to shape their own futures. Across India, Pratham’s programmes are helping young women return to school, gain vital skills, and step into leadership roles within their families and communities.
Investing in women, investing in the future
The theme of International Women’s Day 2025 is “Inspire Inclusion”, and at Pratham UK, we know that inclusive education—where every girl, no matter her background, has the chance to learn and thrive—is essential to building a more equal world. Whether through our Second Chance programme, our skills training for young women, or our work empowering mothers to support their children’s learning, we are committed to ensuring women and girls have the tools they need to succeed.
From learner to leader
Take Ashwini, for example—a young woman from Maharashtra who defied gender norms to become one of the region’s first female welders. Inspired by her father’s work and determined to carve her own path, Ashwini mastered her craft and then took it a step further by becoming a welding instructor with Pratham after suffering from lack of job opportunities due to gender discrimination.
Today, she’s not only building a career but also using her platform to encourage thousands of young women to step into traditionally male-dominated fields, with over 100k Instagram followers cheering her on!
From volunteer to entrepreneur
Equally inspiring, Joshna from Assam’s Jorhat district is another incredible example of resilience and empowerment. From volunteering with Pratham to leading children’s learning clubs in her village, Joshna has dedicated nearly two decades to supporting education in her community. But her story doesn’t end there. At 45, she took part in Pratham’s livelihood programme, training as a beautician and turning her new skills into a thriving business. Today, she travels by bike to provide beauty services at weddings and events, earning an independent income whilst inspiring other women to pursue their career dreams.
From a ‘second chance’ at education to a future full of possibilities
In Odisha, Pratham’s Second Chance programme is creating life-changing opportunities for women and girls who once had to step away from their education due to early marriage, financial struggles, or family responsibilities. Through flexible learning models designed to fit around their daily lives and family responsibilities, these women are returning to the classroom, taking their Grade 10 exams, and discovering a renewed sense of confidence and purpose. With each lesson, they are not only gaining knowledge but also learning to advocate for themselves, pursue better livelihoods, and contribute more actively to their communities.
By embracing this second chance, they are breaking down generational barriers and becoming powerful role models—proving to their daughters, neighbours, and future generations that it’s never too late to learn, dream, and change the course of your life.
Join us this International Women’s Day
As we celebrate the achievements of women across Pratham’s programmes, we remain commitment to supporting the next generation of female changemakers. This International Women’s Day, we invite you to stand with us—to celebrate, amplify, and invest in the power of women and girls!
Together, let’s build a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to learn, lead, and thrive. Donate today to change a young woman’s life!