Defying Odds at 62: P. Regina’s Journey to Empower Women and Transform Communities

At 62, an age when many might consider a quiet retreat, P. Regina is not just leading but also emerging as a force of compassion and resilience for her fellow women community members in Theni district, Tamil Nadu. Regina’s story is a story of economic resurgence, the revival of a community, and the strength found in women supporting women.

Leading Self-Help Group-Vahin, a group of 12 women crafting plant-based and organic sustenance, she is not merely running a business, she’s shaping destinies. Together, they are making products—Carrot malt, Beetroot malt, Banana malt, Millets Puttu Podi Nuts, Watermelon seed spices, Beetroot Honey, Amla Candy, and more. Beyond the tangible products, she is nurturing an environment that not only breeds production excellence but also fosters a sisterhood bound by shared dreams.

Through a partnership with Anandana- The Coca-Cola India Foundation and KVK CENDECT towards creating #SheTheDifference, Regina’s team underwent transformative training programs. The result? A collective monthly income of INR 30,000, marking a significant improvement in livelihoods. Now, their contributions support household expenses and educational endeavors for their children, reflecting the profound impact of skills and technical training. These women, once shadows of themselves, now stand tall, the echoes of their collective efforts reverberating through the lanes of their village.

Regina, alongside her daughter Hema, also manages a small-scale enterprise that empowers five women who, like Regina, had faced economic adversity. Regina’s commitment to their growth goes beyond professional development; it’s a deeply personal journey of healing and empowerment. Their products, carefully crafted, have found homes across numerous villages within the district.

In the hushed conversations within SHG-Vahin, stories emerge – tales of overcoming adversity, finding strength in collective efforts, and a renewed sense of purpose. Regina’s leadership is a lifeline for women who, against the backdrop of societal neglect, are redefining their narrative.

Regina’s remarkable achievements as an entrepreneur have garnered well-deserved recognition, as evidenced by her recent felicitation with the prestigious ‘Best Woman Entrepreneurs Award’ by the honorable state governor, RN Ravi. This honor not only celebrates Regina’s accomplishments but also underscores the invaluable contributions of women in the entrepreneurial landscape.

In a world where the struggles of women often echo in the silence of shadows, Regina, at 62, is waging a war against hopelessness. Through her tears, her triumphs, and the collective heartbeat of SHG-Vahin, Regina is proving that age is not a limitation but a canvas to paint stories of rekindled hope, and the enduring spirit of women crafting their destinies against the odds.

Regina shares that “KVK and Anandana- The Coca-Cola India Foundation have provided them a platform that broadens the scope of their products, reaching a wider array of customers. They have received invaluable assistance in the form of appropriate resources, guidance to connect with the right individuals, and the skill set necessary to expand their production efforts.”