At 34 years old, Thamotharam Kavitha from Eravurpattu, Batticaloa, is the backbone of her family. With her husband permanently disabled, she has taken on the role of breadwinner, supporting a household of five, including her school-going daughter under 18.

Kavitha’s main source of income has been tailoring, through which she earned about 10,000 rupees a month. With the support of the Vriddhi grant under the Peacebuilding Fund, SDG Fund, and the business plan training she received from the CIRCLE Wing of Young Feminist Team (Batticaloa), she was able to expand her work by purchasing a Zochie advanced tailoring machine. This not only improved her tailoring services but also allowed her to diversify, such as selling clothes and tailoring materials alongside her stitching.

Known as a quick learner and a true team player, Kavitha actively participates in community initiatives. She is a member of the advocacy group steering committee and has attended all trainings and events conducted by CIRCLE.

Today, her monthly income has grown to 15,000 rupees and she saves 1500 rupees each month through the Neiythal (sewing) group, initiated by CIRCLE beneficiaries. For the first time, she feels financially secure, able to provide for her family and cover their basic needs with confidence.

Kavitha’s story is one of resilience and determination - a mother and entrepreneur who turned challenges into opportunities and is building a better future for her family.

This initiative was led by the CIRCLE Wing of Young Feminist Team under the Peacebuilding Fund and SDG Fund, Vriddhi and UNOPS Sri Lanka.