For over 10 years, the Livelihood Thematic Pillar has been actively working across diverse geographies, including Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, to support and empower marginalized communities. Our focus includes Gender and Sexual Minorities (GSM), People Living with HIV (PLHIV), and sex worker women.
“Vayati” is the flagship initiative under this pillar—a holistic community development program that aims to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for these communities.
Project Vayati is built on a three-tiered approach that operates at the individual, community, and ecosystem levels to promote inclusive economic empowerment.
Key Objectives:
- Skill Development & Livelihood Access: Providing vocational training and skill-building opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, PLHIV individuals, and sex workers to improve access to jobs, self-employment, and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Sensitization & Awareness: Engaging key stakeholders, such as training institutes, trainers, and mandatory workshops to build safe spaces for livelihood through awareness initiatives to foster inclusive environments and reduce stigma.
- Building Resilience: Strengthening the community resilience of job seekers and entrepreneurs
Project Vayati aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- 1 - No Poverty
- 5 - Gender Equality
- 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
- 10 - Reduced Inequalities
Key Focus Areas / Sub-Themes
- Skilling and Entrepreneurship: Supporting the development of queer-led businesses across various trades through targeted entrepreneurial training and resources.
- Skilling and Employment: Equipping individuals with the skills needed to access diverse and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
- Vocational and Technical Training: Enhancing access to livelihood options by offering advanced vocational and technical courses that open doors to improved livelihood prospects.
