School: Good Harvest School and Neighboring villages
Event Date: Aug 25, 2023- Aug 26, 2023
Audience objective: Free Self Defense Workshop in remote part of India at Good Harvest School Good Harvest School
Actual Attendance: 60 girls from 7 villages near Lucknow, India between the age of 10-25 years.
EVENT OBJECTIVE: Train girls and their teachers free of cost for at risk girls who are vulnerable to child marriages and harassment.
Outreach Achieved: 60 girls and their teachers for sustainability.
Day 1 began with a discussion for younger girls about body autonomy, emphasizing areas where only mothers can touch, how to confidently say no, avoid risky situations, shout for help, and report inappropriate interactions to a trusted adult like a mother or teacher. The team also demonstrated what inappropriate touching looks like.
Ms. Usha then addressed the older girls (12+) on the importance of self-defense, highlighting the reality of sexual violence and encouraging them to share personal experiences with boys in their village or strangers. The conversation covered stereotypes, the importance of naming body parts without shame, and identifying sensitive areas to target in self-defense.
The team demonstrated self-defense techniques, followed by individual practice for all attendees.
Day 2 focused on practicing these techniques with team members, concluding with a simulation where the girls defended themselves against mock attacks by male team members trying to grab, carry, or pin them down.
It was inspiring to see the girls enthusiastically applying different defense techniques. A few girls showed strength and focus, and we identified them as potential trainers.
Reflections from the girls and volunteers
- The workshop removed fear, making it easier to face such situations.
- We now know which sensitive areas to attack and how to defend ourselves.
- We feel more confident in raising our voices against inappropriate behavior.
- We’ve identified trusted people to seek help from.
- The space feels safer for discussing these issues.
- We understand that violence against women and children is not our fault.
- The workshop was effective in teaching us important skills, raising awareness, and helping us shed shyness and fear. It has strengthened our confidence, deepened our bonds, and created a supportive ecosystem.