10th September 2025 Mrs Nalini Rajappan & Beena
Hello, everyone. I’d like to share a beautiful painting by Mrs Nalini Rajappan. It shows two ladies setting out to work with baskets loaded with their goods.
What captured my imagination was how often I see women in public places like the market, on the streets, at stalls, and along roads trying to sell their goods. I often wondered how hard they work to earn their living, feed their children, and send them to school so they can have better lives. These women cook, feed, clean, and resolve domestic issues without discussing them in a boardroom. These women are natural entrepreneurs, facing unique challenges such as societal biases, lack of access to resources, and balancing work with domestic responsibilities.
Undoubtedly, the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have dealt a severe blow to these women. The sudden loss of work, combined with the challenges of living in confined spaces, has caused a range of mental and physical health issues. While some governments have attempted to ease their burden, the joy of being out in the world—meeting colleagues, sharing stories, and selling their goods—is irreplaceable. The physical activity and mental stimulation from negotiating prices would have been a source of happiness. Returning home, tired but energised by the freedom of being out, is a feeling they greatly miss.
I hope that next time you see these hardworking entrepreneurs, you smile and salute their bravery. Consider purchasing from them, sharing their businesses on social media, or even offering them a word of encouragement. Your support can make a meaningful difference in their lives.