When Geetikaa walked into the WE Can India Workshop, she was already running a successful enterprise for almost 10 years. She joined the program because she wanted to learn the business precision. Her enthusiasm, dedication, persistence and diligence was addictive.
Geetikaa had started her entrepreneurial journey in 2007 with the objective of becoming more self-reliant. She came to Dehradun & wanted to rejuvenate as well as restructure herself again. And at this crucial juncture, she met Gauri, a young woman, oppressed and abused asking for help. Perturbed, she decided to help her, by initiating a small venture. As Geetikaa herself knew knitting & crochet she thought it could easily be turned into a financial empowerment process for the women working from home.. Soon other women joined them.
Today, Gauri International, produces and markets, stylish, trendy, high quality, handmade woolen garments. These garments keep out the chill, yet doesn’t add to the bulk. A small cluster (60) of women are trained in hand knitting and crochet. The items cover all age groups starting from infants to children, teens, working women and elderly. Geetikaa caters to a market which is price sensitive but appreciates the hand knitting and the social impact created. Gauri International takes part in Dastkar, Blind School , Trade Fair & Dastkaari Haat exhibitions in Delhi and has received wide appreciation for her products and core ethos of the company. All designing is done by Geetikaa herself.
It hasn’t been an easy journey for Geetikaa. From not having any knowledge about Business, to cash crunch, she has witnessed it all. But what drives her even at 60 years, is her child like eagerness and enthusiasm to learn. And her willingness to give it all that she has for her enterprise. Its her dream to establish Gauri International, as a successful enterprise, which keeps running independently.
