EU, WVL

“After passing my advanced-level exams, I worked for seven years in a private company. However, when I became pregnant, I decided to leave my job. Today, I’m blessed with two healthy, young boys. But as the cost of living skyrocketed due to the economic collapse, the salary from my husband's job was no longer enough to cover our family’s needs. Despite being a mother, I didn’t want to limit myself to just home and family life. I believe women are capable of achieving great things. Why should we confine ourselves to the kitchen and household chores?” Deepani said with determination in her voice.

“It’s true that I lost everything in the beginning, but I never gave up. I didn’t lose hope or stop striving to create my own business. I explored every possible avenue. My love for art and nature inspired me to start my journey. I began creating handmade crafts, focusing on kitchen utensils, decorative items, and gifts made from eco-friendly materials like coconut shells, reeds, and cane. Today, these products are popular in the market, and the demand is growing.”

"However, sourcing raw materials proved challenging. Only coconut shells were available in my area, so I started working with coco nutshells instead. It was during this time that I joined the Savings for Transformation (S4T) group, part of the Grace Project.” 

The Grassroots Conflict Prevention in Sri Lanka (GRACE) project, funded by the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) of the European Commission, operates in five locations in the Western and Northwestern provinces of Sri Lanka, established 112 S4T groups to promote savings and foster community-based conflict prevention in the aftermath of Sri Lanka's economic crisis.

“I was able to save money through the savings group and take out loans with favorable terms. Without this, I would have had to rely on microfinance institutions with much higher interest rates. It’s our own money, and having access to it has been a game-changer. I also had the opportunity to participate in training workshops, which provided valuable insights on how to market my products effectively. The best part is that while I received a loan from the group, I was also able to benefit from my share of the savings, which helps small businesses like mine grow and contribute to our local community.”

With heartfelt gratitude, Deepani added, “I’m thankful to the European Union and the Grace Project for this incredible opportunity.” 

“Priya Handicrafts is my brand,” she said, smiling with joy.