Non-Traditional Livelihoods (NTL)

Non-Traditional Livelihoods (NTL) are defined as livelihood practices that help women break stereotypes emerging from the intersections of gender, caste, class, religion, sexual orientation, disabilities and other marginalities and oppressive structures, within a dynamic context of space and time. NTL increase the set of viable livelihood choices available to women and give them access and control over skills, technology, market, mobility and resources. They create economic stability along with psychological, social and political empowerment.

CYDA is working with adolescents’ girls and young women – 18 to 24 years, living in urban poor communities of Pune. It promotes non-traditional skills and encourages them to take livelihood opportunities and professions which break the gender stereotypes and challenge the existing gender narratives around gender and work. Over the past 3 years, CYDA has been advancing for the rights of young girls and women to enter male dominated careers, in order to change gender stereotypes and norms.

NTL program has given them the motivation to aspire, think for themselves and step outside their homes for the first time in their lives.