Background

Across our vast nation, a large majority of women from underserved communities lack access to opportunities and spaces where they can nurture self-expression, refine communication skills, and build confidence in public speaking. Unfortunately, this gap in opportunities is not only a result of circumstance but can be traced back to systemic barriers that limit young girls’ access to education. According to UNESCO, India is home to one of the largest numbers of illiterate women in the world. Over 200 million young women suffer due to this. The noted figure reflects more than just an educational shortfall; it is evidence of the restricted access to platforms through which women’s voices can be heard and where they can express themselves. 

In the current landscape, speaking with conviction, quick thinking, and being heard are not just skills that young women should desire; they are key to transforming people’s lives. Particularly in urban spaces and in an increasingly globalised world, communication is a key skill that can open doors to employment as well as empowerment. By recognizing this gap and the harsh reality that these young women have to face daily, PrimaVoce is a social initiative that was founded with the mission of removing barriers to extempore speech and providing public speaking training to girls from socio-economically challenged backgrounds.