Letter from the CEO

Outside Khordha in Orissa, India is a leper colony. It’s isolated – no one wants to interact with these people. Well, almost nobody. In February I headed there with Dia Vikas manager, Manas Bid. Just three years ago these women were beggars in the city. Talk about marginalised: poor, female, beggar, leper. It was going to be an emotionally difficult day.

As we approached the colony, I prepared for a sensitive interaction. When visiting microfinance clients you often sense the struggle of daily life. Many Indian women are shy and reserved with strangers, shielding their faces behind their sarees.

Not these ladies. They were so bubbly and giggly. They greeted us with bunches of flowers and threw flowers in our hair. They giggled and wanted to hold our hands. This was one of the happiest and warmest microfinance groups I have met.

We were instantly their friends because we came with their friends, one of our newest microfinance partners, People’s Forum. They have helped these women through the most amazing transformation – from downcast beggars to confident, upbeat rope makers. People’s Forum has helped them source coconut coir and taught them how to make rope to sell in markets. These women have gained much more than just an income – they have gained hope, confidence and respect. People in the surrounding villages have begun to accept them. This is the power of opportunity.

However, there are still many people still waiting. I want to ask that if you are able to give, please do – you never know how much difference your action will make.

Warmly

Robert Dunn

Chief Executive Officer