At Questera Foundation, our mission is clear: to break the cycle of marginalization by creating an
ecosystem of equal opportunities for communities through collaboration. Our latest initiative is a testament to this vision, as we establish a resource centre (incubator) to promote self-
entrepreneurship as a livelihood option for marginalised communities including persons with disabilities. We are doing this in collaboration with a few organisations in Hyderabad like NIEPID
(National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities), Yunikee and Reach
Beyond Foundation. This initiative aims to empower these individuals by providing them with the
skills and support they need to achieve financial independence.
A Holistic Approach to Empowerment
Our approach is both comprehensive and empathetic. We begin by identifying a cohort and
conducting a thorough needs assessment to understand their interests and skills. Based on this
assessment, we provide training in a specific skill that aligns with market demand. This training is
followed by hands-on support to help the cohort find the right market and sell their products.
Currently, we are overseeing three cohorts specializing in crochet, macrame, and tailoring. Over the
past 8-9 months, these efforts have borne fruit, and we are proud to share some remarkable
successes with more than 70 women been mobilised to form women self-entrepreneur groups to
promote these crafts.
The Star Cohort of Crocheters
Among our three cohorts, the crochet batch stands out. Sri Crochet Kala Sangam is a group of 30
ladies who produce and sell crochet articles with the help of our founder who is an expert crocheter
and wants to bring back this age-old art to foray. Around 10 of them have become expert crocheters
capable of creating highly marketable products capable of cross border sales.
This skill and its path to financial independence is unique. The caregivers of people with Intellectual
Disability face a challenge as they are the sole care giver to the child. Our programme has given them
a hope by empowering them to work from home and establish themselves as a self-entrepreneur.
These artisans have started earning and are enthusiastic about their identity as an artisan as well as a
caregiver.
Marketing Our Products: RangTaar
Our marketing efforts have been equally robust. We are promoting a newly started brand named “RangTaar” on social media platforms and online marketplaces to provide market access to the self-
entrepreneurs. Our initial product category includes apparel such as tops, skirts, and mufflers, designed for all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. The unique color palette and inclusive approach have
resonated well with our clients. Brand RangTaar will help us market the products not only online but
also through exhibitions and showroom sales.
One of our NRI customers was so impressed with her purchase that she helped us bag multiple
orders from her network in the USA. This kind of feedback motivates us to expand our reach.
Looking Ahead
While we have made significant strides, much work remains. Our journey is just beginning, and we
are filled with positivity and excitement about the future. We are committed to scaling up our
efforts, reaching more women, and expanding our market presence.