​In the quiet neighborhoods of Rangpur—from the Sawtal colonies of Uttar Shekhpara to the bustling lanes of Mahiganj—a silent revolution is taking place. It is a revolution of needles, threads, and unwavering determination. At the heart of this transformation is Soptadha Polli, an organization dedicated to turning the dreams of marginalized women into tangible skills.
​The Spark of Change
​Recently, the city of Rangpur witnessed a vibrant display of community spirit. Under the initiative of Soptadha Polli's various wings, a five-day intensive training program on handicrafts was organized specifically for women from ethnic minority groups and underprivileged backgrounds.
​This wasn't just a workshop; it was a bridge to self-reliance. Yesterday, in a heartfelt ceremony held at Sawtal Para, the air was filled with pride as hundreds of women received certificates, marking their journey from trainees to skilled artisans.
​Reaching the Unreached
​The reach of this initiative was vast, touching the lives of women from diverse and often overlooked areas, including:
​Indigenous Communities: Sawtal and Oraow communities of Uttar and Dakkhin Shekhpara.
​Urban Colonies: The Sweeper Colony at Dhumkaathia and neighborhoods like Tajhat, Shalbon, and Kerani Para.
​Remote Pockets: Areas ranging from Dharmadaspur to the Khalifa Para and Mungipara regions.
​The Architects of Skill
​The success of this program rests on the shoulders of dedicated mentors. Led by the visionary Chairperson of Soptadha Polli, Sonia Shobhan, a team of expert trainers—including Rokshana Begum, Umme Hasnat Khanam, Morsheda Begum, Shahnaz Islam, and Walia Chowdhury Ifthi—poured their expertise into these women. They didn't just teach a craft; they instilled the confidence to lead.
​Beyond the Certificate
​What sets Saptadha Polli apart is their commitment to sustainability. After successfully training 688 participants through their Youth Development, Cooperative Society, and Women’s Development branches, they didn't send them home empty-handed.
​Every trainee was gifted a complete toolkit—an embroidery frame, needles, thread, and fabric. This ensures that the moment they step back into their homes, they have everything they need to start practicing their craft and earning a dignified livelihood.
​A Future Stitched with Hope
​Soptadha Polli is proving that empowerment isn't just a word; it’s an action. By providing free training and the tools to succeed, they are enabling the women of Rangpur to break the cycle of poverty.
​As these 688 women begin to create intricate designs on fabric, they aren't just making handicrafts—they are stitching together a brighter, more independent future for their families and the entire community.