The CAPCO-Wipro Hotlite Training Program, spearheaded by The We Foundation which is one of the best NGO for women empowerment, with the collaboration of CAPCO-Wipro. This program is dedicated to empowering women from Darjeeling District by providing them with crucial skills to start and run their own food cart businesses. From August 26th to 28th, 2024, we conducted an intensive training session for 20 women from Bidhannagar 1 & 2, Phansidewa, and Katamari. Our goal was to equip these women with practical culinary skills, business acumen, and the confidence needed to achieve financial independence.
During the three-day program, participants engaged in a comprehensive learning experience. On Day 1, they were introduced to the basics of the food industry and food cart operations, with a strong emphasis on hygiene and safety protocols. They learned to prepare vegetable momos, gaining hands-on experience in cutting, filling, and folding.
Day 2 focused on expanding their skills with stir-fry techniques for making vegetable and paneer momos, alongside advanced cutting techniques to enhance presentation. Participants practiced these skills and received feedback to refine their techniques.
On Day 3, the training included preparing chicken momos and crafting various dipping sauces, including mint and momo sauces. Participants also explored creative alternatives like sweet corn momos, receiving practical guidance and taste-testing feedback to perfect their recipes.
Throughout the program, participants were provided with detailed study materials covering everything from the history of momo and noodles to the practical aspects of momo preparation and cooking methods. They learned to use essential kitchen tools and ingredients, and we addressed challenges such as sourcing ingredients and technological issues with online instruction.
Looking ahead, the program will offer continued support to help the participants launch their food carts. This includes mentorship, assistance with securing financial resources, further training in advanced culinary and business skills, and guidance on branding and marketing their new ventures.
We are proud of the progress made and are committed to seeing these women thrive as entrepreneurs.