When Self-Reliance Turned Fear into Leadership

Ruby Devi, a resident of Kazhiyapur near Dinkar Golambar in Patna, once lived a life defined by fear and uncertainty. Repeated demolitions, forced displacement, and extreme poverty made survival a daily struggle. Livelihoods were unstable, food was uncertain, and dignity felt fragile.
Then came the COVID-19 lockdown—and everything collapsed.
Her income stopped, food supplies ran out, and her family was pushed to the brink of hunger. There were moments when survival itself seemed impossible.
At this critical time, Dalit Vikas Abhiyan Samiti (DVAS) stepped in—not just as a support system, but as a source of hope. The organization provided two months of dry ration, hygiene kits, and ₹25,000 as livelihood support. More importantly, they restored Ruby’s confidence and belief that life could change.
With this support, Ruby started a small fast-food and egg shop. What began as a means of survival soon became a stable source of income, earning ₹1000–₹1500 daily and ensuring her family’s basic needs.
With continued guidance, Ruby’s journey evolved further. She was registered as a street vendor and connected to government schemes. She received driving training along with 20 other women and adolescents, and with the support of Living My Promise, she was provided an E-Rickshaw.
This marked a turning point in her life.
Today, Ruby Devi earns ₹1500–₹2000 daily by driving her E-Rickshaw and also runs her food stall in the evenings. She has been trained in digital literacy, making her financially and digitally empowered.
From a woman struggling for food and shelter, Ruby has emerged as a self-reliant entrepreneur, a confident leader, and a role model for other marginalized and homeless women. Her journey has inspired more than 100 women in her community to step forward, learn new skills, and build sustainable livelihoods.
Ruby Devi’s story is not just about survival—it is about transformation.
It proves that when the right support, skills, and opportunities come together, even the most vulnerable can become leaders of change.
Your support does not just help one woman—
it creates a ripple of empowerment across entire communities.

“When survival was uncertain, opportunity created a leader.”
“Your support can turn fear into strength—and a struggling woman into a changemaker.”