Ms. Annamary
This venture is our identity. It has helped us see life from different perspectives. To earn and to be part of the community is our basic right. We run this enterprise. That statement is powerfulâand I feel empowered when someone calls me 'madam.' Thatâs when I understood that work isnât always about money; itâs about roles and relationships.
Ms. Annamary came to The Banyan as a client twenty years ago. Through her own initiative, she launched DâLite Masalaâa spice powderâmaking social cooperative housed within The Banyanâwhich was inaugurated in 2022. She leads this enterprise alongside Nandhini, another client of The Banyan. At the Thinnai CafĂŠ in Kovalam, their masalas are put to delicious use in the preparation of meals and snacks.
In recognition of her leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, Ms. Annamary was awarded the State Award for Best Employee in the self-employment category. At The Banyan, dignity means enabling individuals to build a life on their own termsâwith agency, respect, and meaningful participation.
