Chinchwad (Pune), March 2025: The International Women’s Day event was celebrated on March 8, 2025, at Don Bosco Private ITI, Chinchwad, under the aegis of AXA Global Business Services. The event was honoured by the presence of Mr. Rishikesh Hirve (Finance Department, AXA-GBS) as the Chief Guest, along with esteemed Guests of Honour, including Fr. Antony D’Souza (Rector, Don Bosco Chinchwad), Fr. Colbert (Social Work In-charge, DB Chinchwad), Fr. Bosco, and Fr. Dinesh (Social Work In-charge, Don Bosco Koregaon Park).

In their keynote addresses, Fr. Antony and Fr. Dinesh highlighted the persistent gender inequality and emphasized the importance of empowering women to claim their rightful place in society. The event also celebrated the achievements of women who successfully completed skill training programs under the Women Empowerment Project. As part of this initiative:

• 30 women who completed the Fashion Designing Course were awarded sewing machines with motors, enabling them to launch their own tailoring businesses.

• 30 women who completed the Beauty Care Course received business kits containing essential tools and products, helping them establish their beauty care enterprises.

The event’s success was made possible through the meticulous coordination, planning, and logistical efforts of Mr. Nagsen Chaven (Coordinator - Koregaon Park) and Mrs. Akshada Naik (Coordinator - Chinchwad). Additionally, social workers Mrs. Vibhavari Kamble, Mrs. Priya Sonawane, Mrs. Rajshree Deshkhaire, and Mrs. Lina Gaikwad played a vital role in ensuring smooth execution, including food, water, and other necessary arrangements. Lassi was served to all attendees during the program, followed by snacks at the end.

Fr. George Miranda (Executive Director) delivered the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Antony, Fr. Colbert, Fr. Bosco, and Fr. Dinesh for their unwavering support and contributions to the program. He also extended his appreciation to the staff and students of DB ITI for their enthusiastic participation and assistance in organizing the event alongside the DBDS team. He expressed his special thanks to AXA Global Services Limited for their generous support and commitment towards empowering women in slum communities.