Transforming tresses and tradition
Rampati is now a proficient male hairdresser, who, armed with vocational, entrepreneurship, and work-related skills and training is proving that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated professions.
In the heart of rural Nepal, 25-year-old Rampati’s life was once entwined with the challenges of manual labor and a relentless cycle of migration. Yet, amidst adversity, she discovered her own path towards empowerment and independence, breaking down gender barriers and redefining traditional roles in her community.
A life of toil
Rampati’s early years were marked by unending hardship as she toiled alongside her husband as a manual laborer. Their work often took them away from their home for months, forcing them to rent cramped, unsanitary accommodations near construction sites. The grueling labor and challenging environment took a toll on Rampati’s health, and she yearned for change.
Rampati’s life took a turn when she decided to return to her village, seeking respite from the arduous life she had known. Little did she know that this decision would open doors to new opportunities, thanks to the support of Plan International Nepal’s initiative aimed at empowering youth and preventing child, early, and forced marriage.
Daring to dream
Amidst a spectrum of vocational choices, Rampati chose an unconventional path — male hairdressing. “Unlike female hairdressing, you do not have to stand for hours to complete the hairdressing for males. Male hairdressing is simple and quick,” tells Rampati.
Her goal was not merely to acquire a new skill but to challenge societal norms and prove that women could excel in traditionally male-dominated professions.
“Unlike female hairdressing, you do not have to stand for hours to complete the hairdressing for males. Male hairdressing is simple and quick.”
Rampati
Overcoming challenges
The journey was not without its challenges. Rampati faced skepticism from her in-laws and observed potential customers seeking male service providers at the salon. Yet, she persevered, honing her skills in male hairdressing and customer care.
A passion for learning
Rampati’s three-month training transformed her into a proficient hairdresser. She mastered the art of hair cutting, shaving, facials, and massages. Her instructor recognised her talent and offered her a job in his salon, a stepping stone toward her dream of opening her own establishment.
Rampati’s education was interrupted at a young age, but her determination to learn financial literacy and bookkeeping became her strength. Initially struggling with numbers, she now confidently manages her business finances, understanding the importance of tracking expenses, savings, and profits.
A vision for the future
Rampati’s aspirations extend beyond the salon chair. She envisions a bustling salon in a busy city area, where she and her husband work together, dismantling traditional gender roles. “After a year I am planning to set up my salon in a busy city area. I want my husband to work with me. I will teach him the hairdressing and we both can run a salon efficiently,” shares Rampati.
Her long-term plans include starting a family, but on her terms, when she and her husband are ready.
“After a year I am planning to set up my salon in a busy city area. I want my husband to work with me. I will teach him the hairdressing and we both can run a salon efficiently.”
Rampati
Rampati’s journey is testament to the resilience of the human spirit. From a life of labor and hardship, she has emerged as a trailblazer, challenging stereotypes and embracing newfound skills. Her story is a beacon of hope, illustrating that with determination, support, and the courage to defy convention, one can transform their life and inspire others to do the same. Rampati’s path is a testament to the boundless potential that lies within every individual, waiting to be unleashed.
Skills and work, child marriage, Livelihoods, Vocational training
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