On 8 March, the world celebrated International Women’s Day, with the theme of “Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future”, highlighting the achievements made towards gender equality, but also acknowledging there's still progress to be made.

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2022 Global Gender Gap Report, India ranked 143rd out of 146 countries on economic participation for women, and Indonesia was ranked 80th. These statistics can be turned around.

Through our locally-led microfinance programs - with 95% of our loan clients being women - Opportunity's work helps break down gender barriers by giving women, including many rural and living in poverty, the tools to start and grow their own businesses. When a woman is economically empowered, she's able to invest in the health and education of her families and communities. Microfinance also positively influences women’s decision-making power and enhances their overall socioeconomic status.

Arpita in the field meeting women we serve with Opportunity CEO, Scott Walters

Opportunity International Australia’s social impact investing partner in India, Dia Vikas, has recently appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, Arpita Pal Agrawal. She is a staunch supporter of women and empowers them to make real and innovative changes to their lives to support their families financially.

More than 5 million women and families are currently being supported through small loans in India, and Arpita visited some of them for the first time recently.

“It has been a great experience meeting the women we serve,” said Arpita.

Arpita has big goals to deepen Opportunity and Dia Vikas’ reach and impact on these families.

“We want to share more of the impact that we’re seeing of the improvement of lives and livelihoods of these women, in terms of their health, education, safety, access to finance, which helps them enjoy a better and more empowered life,” added Arpita. 

Arpita with Opportunity staff meeting a loan group

With International Women’s Day being celebrated this week, Arpita sees the day as one of the most important on the calendar.

“International Women’s Day is crucial, because at Dia Vikas, on this day, we reiterate our commitment to identify and work with partners that zealously implement practices and innovative interventions that help remove impediments toward a gender equal future in India,” said Arpita.

Learn more about the impact of female-focused small loans across Asia, helping women living in poverty pave brighter futures.