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From Village to Vision— How Swasthyashree is Empowering Women in the Sundarbans

Impact Story

In the remote, flood-prone islands of the Indian Sundarbans, life moves at the rhythm of nature, but opportunities for women have long been limited by isolation and tradition. Yet, a quiet revolution is unfolding — one led by the women themselves.

From Self-Help Groups to Community Leaders

In March 2025, The WE Foundation launched Project Swasthyashree, not just as a health initiative, but as a movement to empower women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in five Gram Panchayats of the Gosaba block. The project selected 100 women, training them to become Swasthyashrees — community health leaders who would bring change to their villages.

But the transformation went far beyond medical knowledge. These women discovered their own voices, confidence, and leadership abilities. Through structured training in communication, community mobilization, and advocacy, they emerged not only as health ambassadors but as role models and catalysts for change in their communities.​

Women Leading Change

Each Swasthyashree now oversees ten households, organizing monthly activities like clean-up drives, nutrition workshops, and peer support circles. They have become trusted figures — the first to be called upon for advice, guidance, and support. Their presence has sparked conversations about women’s rights, education, and economic independence, creating ripple effects that extend well beyond healthcare.

Stories of Empowerment

Behind every statistic is a story of transformation:

  • Rekha, once hesitant to speak in public, now leads village meetings and inspires other women to step forward.
  • Sunita, a mother of three, found new purpose and self-worth as she organized her first health awareness session.
  • The Swasthyashrees have built a network of solidarity, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating each success together.

A New Chapter for the Sundarbans

Empowered by their new roles, these women are shaping the future of their communities. The next phase of Swasthyashree aims to expand the model, training 200 more Swasthyashrees across vulnerable regions like Namkhana and Patharpratima.

With each woman stepping into leadership, Project Swasthyashree is not just improving health outcomes — it is igniting a movement of women empowerment, resilience, and hope in the Sundarbans. One empowered woman, one household, one village at a time, the Sundarbans is being transformed from within.