Citizens of many developing countries—in particular Zimbabwe and Chile—have experienced oppression in various forms, ranging from repressive regimes to political isolation. With some exceptions, women and children are hurt most by these periods of suppression. During these times, power is defined by firing a gun, a role that females are typically excluded from. Instead, they are often stripped of a meaningful identity and reduced to their gender. SKIC’s programs of microfinance and scholarships are a means to empower this historically marginalized group and counteract years of subjugation.

By providing loans and scholarships, SKI Charities respects and honors the entrepreneurial spirit and self-initiative of beneficiaries by empowering them with finance and education. In these programs, women and girls are not seen as powerless but rather as capable actors with the aptitude and will to make intelligent decisions that will enable them to succeed, to repay their loan or to graduate. Many of these women have been oppressed for reasons totally beyond their control, based almost solely on their biology. By giving them the tools to succeed, SKIC begins to level the playing field.

Shyam recalls, “there is a prominent aid organization in London that employs disadvantaged individuals to sell newspapers. Their slogan is, ‘a hand up, not a hand out.’ Similarly, we give a hand up to these women and girls, empowering them to achieve equality. Through finance and education, we enable them to rebuild their identity and attain independence.”