Savitri Narayana and her family have been living in Bangalore but hailing from Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. They migrated two decades ago, seeking better income opportunities. Due to never having received a formal education, Savitri has not been able to assist her husband in their modest knife shop as she has needed more confidence and has been unfamiliar with the art of sales.
Things changed when she became a suryamukhi through the support of the Pollinate Group. For two years now, people from the neighbourhood have been going to her, seeking products that improve their lives.
One of the most significant challenges that Savitri has addressed is the lack of lighting in her neighbourhood. The pathways have often been slippery due to rainwater collecting in the excess mud, making it unsafe for people, especially children, to move around after dark. Savitri has introduced solar lights to their community, illuminating the streets and making it safer for everyone to travel during evenings and nights.
Not only have the solar lights brightened the neighbourhood, but they have also had an unexpected impact on the environment. The collection of excess mud and rainwater in the community has led to mosquito breeding grounds. With the installation of solar fans, the wind has kept the mosquitoes at bay, reducing infections and improving the overall health of the residents.
Moreover, the illuminated streets have helped keep the street dogs at a distance, protecting the children and giving parents peace of mind.
Savitri has become a well-known figure in her community, respected and admired by all. Her newfound role has brought about a surge in their household income. The earnings she has received as a suryamukhi, combined with the extended shop hours due to her contribution, have lifted her family’s financial situation. The sense of empowerment she has gained with the training and tools provided by Pollinate Group has enabled her to contribute to the family income and has made her feel more confident and capable than ever before.
Before joining Pollinate Group, Savitri had never owned a phone. But her exceptional performance and dedication have not gone unnoticed, which has earned her a smartphone from Pollinate. The phone has made it easier for her to place orders online and do day-to-day bookkeeping of her sales, which has further helped to scale her business.
Savitri’s story is not just about solar products or business success. It is a tale of transformation, empowerment, and the human spirit. It is about a woman who, despite lacking formal education, has dared to dream and break barriers. Pollinate Group has played a crucial role in helping her realise her potential and become a change-maker in her community.
Through the efforts of Pollinate Group and the indomitable spirit of Savitri, a small neighbourhood in Bangalore has seen a significant positive change. The impact of her work has reverberated far beyond the walls of her husband’s shop, touching the lives of everyone around her