Zero to Hero Women across Maharashtra are rewriting their stories — turning challenges into opportunities through determination, skill development, and entrepreneurship. Their journeys from struggle to success reflect the power of women empowerment in action.

Kokan NGO India: 14 Years of Building Futures

For 14 years, Kokan Kala Va Shikshan Vikas Sanstha (Kokan NGO India) has worked tirelessly to promote women’s economic independence and sustainable community development across Maharashtra. Through education, training, and livelihood support, the organization empowers women entrepreneurs to launch startups of women’s business that bring lasting social and financial change.

The annual Kokan Kala Mahotsav is more than a cultural celebration—it’s a movement recognizing individuals who turn creativity and courage into real-world impact. In 2025, the festival honors six inspiring women with the Zero to Hero Award, celebrating their transformation from adversity to achievement.

Understanding the Zero to Hero Award

The Zero to Hero Award honours those who have overcome difficult circumstances to build better futures—both for themselves and their communities. These change makers serve as living examples of the empowerment of women, using skill, resilience, and innovation to achieve economic independence and inspire others.

Six Stories of Progress and Impact

1. Shwetambari Shetye – From Corporate Life to Natural Skincare Entrepreneur

From Ratnagiri to recognition, Shwetambari’s journey began with a passion for natural skincare. What started as a personal hobby evolved into “Jackfruit,” a successful startup of women’s business now valued in crores. Her brand’s growth showcases how creativity and purpose can blend to create both profit and empowerment.

2. Geeta Belpatre – Championing Sustainable Futures

In Dharni Taluka, Amravati, Geeta leads initiatives for environmental conservation and sustainable farming. Her work promotes eco-friendly agriculture while improving livelihoods—proving that women who are entrepreneurs can be powerful voices for both community and planet.

3. Anita Appa Aalve – Building a Business Through Hard Work

Known as “Awas,” Anita’s daily grind from 4 AM to 8 PM fuels her family’s dreams. Her dedication turned a small tea and snack business into a thriving enterprise. She’s a living symbol of Zero to Hero, showing that consistency and honesty are the strongest forms of empowerment.

4. Anuradha Pere – Turning Paper Into Prosperity

From homemaker to employer, Anuradha’s paper-product business in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar reflects the resilience behind every women who are entrepreneurs. Starting with a small loan, she created jobs for others and proved that women’s business startups can uplift entire communities.

5. Renuka Jadhav – A Lifeline for the Vulnerable

Through Kranti Mahila Sangh, Renuka empowers marginalized women and transgender individuals. Her leadership during COVID-19—mobilizing ₹40 lakh in relief—epitomizes empowerment of women with purpose. Her success lies not only in her achievements but in her mission to uplift others.

6. Pratiksha Khutale – From Homemaker to Fashion Designer

A graduate of Kokan NGO India’s tailoring course, Pratiksha turned her dream into a thriving design business. Earning ₹15,000–₹20,000 monthly, her designs now reach 12 villages. Her journey proves that skill training and support can transform homemakers into women who are entrepreneurs achieving economic independence.

Why These Stories of Women Empowerment Matter at Kokan Kala Mahotsav 2025

The Kokan Kala Mahotsav celebrates courage, creativity, and community transformation. Each Zero to Hero awardee embodies:

• Inspiration Through Real Examples: From Shwetambari’s skincare brand to Pratiksha’s tailoring business, these stories ignite hope for aspiring women who are entrepreneurs.
  
• Economic Independence Through Skills: Every woman shows how targeted interventions like vocational training and small loans can spark women’s business startups.
  
• Diverse Paths to Empowerment: From environmental leadership to social reform and creative industries, their journeys highlight how the empowerment of women creates ripple effects across society.
  
• Mentorship and Support: These achievers now mentor others, ensuring the cycle of empowerment continues.
  

Looking Ahead

The Zero to Hero Women of Maharashtra are proof that transformation is possible with opportunity, skill, and perseverance. Their stories remind us that women’s economic independence isn’t just a dream—it’s a movement.

As Kokan NGO India continues to empower more women who are entrepreneurs through training and recognition at the Kokan Kala Mahotsav, it invites everyone—donors, supporters, and communities—to join hands in building futures where every woman can rise from zero to hero.