SHILLONG, March 6: Women entrepreneurs from the city showcased their products and connected with fellow women entrepreneurs in a programme ahead of International Women’s Day at CaféHashtag in Don Bosco on Saturday.
Phoebe Dale Nongrum, a renowned motorsport professional, was felicitated. Meena Kharkongor, Former Chairperson of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, presented the memento.
She said, “Men and women should respect and support each other.”
Karelin Rajee, a fashion enthusiast, has started her own clothing line, Wear Calla Rose in January 2021 with a view to break stereotypes on fashion vis-à-vis body image issues. “Just take that leap and pursue your dream,” she said.
Merihsha Toi owns her candle business. 24 Degrees Scented Candles since November, 2020. She lived in Dubai for a long time; once home she realised that candle culture is not organic. Following her passion has made her realise how important it is for women to be fearless and take risks in life.
Bahoni, an initiative that works with the people in remote areas of Meghalaya, is not just about business, but “it is a concept”, said Ibadashisha Mary Sawkamie.
The idea is to empower the locals by showcasing their work and promote beautiful North-East. She said how tourists buy Khasi baskets as souvenirs. She hopes to make it sustainable that will support the people who are into basket-weaving.
The idea is to blend aesthetics with sustainable business.
Her message for both men and women – “Choose to challenge the status quo. Don’t try to fit in and live life on your own terms”.
Singers from Shillong also performed in the programme.
Cecelia Kharkongor, a Government employee, feels that 21 st century women should lift each other up.
“We are stronger when we are together. Show the world your talents, she added. Her husband Vicky V Kharkongor runs the Café. Echoing her sentiments, Vicky stressed that women are go-getters and “as men we should respect that and support their endeavours”. His brother Nick said, “Women should break all barriers”.
MeAi Initiative is a crafts business owned by Sally Ride. They make jewellery, bags and candles, among other things. She feels that women can achieve anything they put their minds to. Women, she added, can contribute to society in meaningful ways and all “we need is a platform”.
The women entrepreneurs all feel that every day is women’s day and stressed on how men are unlearning stereotypes, ushering in the much-needed change in society. No matter how gradual the pace may seem, what is important is that the process has begun.
