In January, 13 AWIU members traveled on a Delegation to southern India and Delhi as part of our mission to create international understanding through meaningful visits abroad. The AWIU Delegation’s journey through India was a deeply moving and inspiring experience, centered around women’s empowerment, cultural exchange, and global connection. Our travels began in Kochi, Kerala, a city layered with Chinese, Portuguese, and Dutch influences. We explored Fort Kochi’s colonial architecture, watched local fishermen use traditional Chinese nets, and spoke with women dock workers earning $8 a day—less than their male counterparts. Though the pay gap persists, many expressed that they are proud to be part of the workforce and shared hope in programs like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, a savings initiative for girls’ futures.
At St. Teresa’s College, India’s first women’s college in Cochin State, we were welcomed by passionate faculty and students leading programs focused on social outreach, sustainability, and leadership. We left inspired and hopeful for future collaborations.
In rural Kerala, we visited women-led enterprises like Cappacale Foods and Kara Weaves, witnessing how grassroots innovation is uplifting communities. At Back2Village and The Place, we saw firsthand how traditional skills and sustainable practices are being reclaimed to empower women through design, agriculture, and storytelling—highlighted by the Chekutty Dolls, made from flood-damaged saris and now symbols of resilience.
Village Lift, founded by AWIU’s own Rita Das, introduced us to artisans in Kollum, where we were welcomed with traditional dance, coconut drinks, and a joyful shopping experience featuring locally made soaps, textiles, and treats.
Crossing into Tamil Nadu, we visited the sacred town of Theni and the bustling city of Madurai, observing river rituals, village celebrations, and colorful processions. The contrast between Kerala’s lush calm and Tamil Nadu’s industrious energy offered new perspectives on India’s rich regional diversity.
In Agra, the Taj Mahal left us speechless with its beauty and symmetry, while the Red Fort impressed with its architectural strength and history. A final leg in Delhi brought us to a local slum community where we visited a preschool supported by government programs. Teachers spoke passionately about the importance of early education for working mothers. At the U.S. Embassy’s American Center, we learned about programs promoting women’s participation in STEM and the workforce.
Our trip ended on the bustling streets of Old Delhi, the scent of spices in the air and the sound of rickshaw bells echoing behind us. This was more than a visit—it was a journey of understanding, partnership, and the powerful impact of women supporting women across the globe.
