Eye of the beholder...

Since I've been volunteering at Deep Griha I've had the pleasure of attending all kinds of events and getting involved in a number of different projects. But one thing I certainly didn't envisage when I first came overseas was being a guest of honour at a ceremony for graduates of a Beautician Training Course...

DGS runs a host of Women's Empowerment Programmes. Along with Literacy classes, there are also vocational courses such as the Nursing and Housekeeper training schemes, plus Beautician, Henna and Rangoli courses designed to help young women set up their own small businesses. DGS also runs regular Development Seminars and provides support for self-help group formation and co-operative groups.

Back in March I was asked by Mrs Dande - all round superwoman in charge of Women's Development - to attend the Beauticians' Course Prizegiving as one of the guests of honour. How could I possibly refuse? The women had just completed their studies and were marking the event with a small ceremony; certificates were to be awarded - could I join fellow volunteers Vreny, Hannah and Laura in doing the honours? Certainly.

The event was great fun. All the class were present, along with plenty of supportive offspring. We were invited to look at the notes the women had prepared during their classes, and I for one learnt all kinds of things about eyebrow plucking and mascara application. Then it was time to hand out the prizes, to beaming smiles all round. We finished off with chaat snacks and a special thank you to the course teacher. All in a day's work at DGS...