Empowerment of women has taken on a new meaning in the Deccan plateau. Namita A Shrivastava meets the FLO team

Suddenly, the Hyderabad Chapter of FLO (FICCI Ladies Organisation) is buzzing with activity. There are monthly meetings, workshops, lectures and power lunches. The new chairperson, Shanti Reddy, is a dynamic lady. A successful entrepreneur herself, she likes to lead from the front. Her seven-member board team are all recognisable faces. Sushi Chelani is the vice chairperson, Hina Srivastava, secretary and Lata Reddy, treasurer. Four others — Vinita Pittie, Shanta John, Sunita Surana and Anita Sanghi — look after the membership programme. Each of these women is known for her ability and passion. Within the first few months of taking over, the membership shot up from a dwindling 13 to a sturdy 95.

The Objective
FLO is a wing of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) with its headquarters in New Delhi. Started 17 years ago, the organisation believes in harnessing and channelising the resources and strengths of women to assure them their rightful place in society. The objective of FLO is to promote entrepreneurship and professional excellence in women.

In Hyderabad it was Shanti's enterprise, which resurrected the defunct organization. “I used to meet so many women who had an entrepreneurial streak in them or had talent but didn't know how to use it. They didn't know whom to approach, where to go and what to ask. Added to this, was my own experience as an entrepreneur. You make so many mistakes, because there's no one to guide you and don't even realize that you are making mistakes. The roadblocks one faces in setting up a business can deter the toughest amongst us. It, therefore, seemed like a good idea to chalk out a programme for women who wanted to start their own venture.”

More Power To Women
That the women in the city are enthusiastic is evident from the quick rise in the number of members. The annual membership is available for Rs 3,850 and life membership can be picked for Rs 11,850. Hina adds that many annual members are already opting for life membership. “The response has been tremendous and women from the districts are showing an interest too. This just goes to prove that women can do a lot more if they were encouraged and guided correctly.”

There's a lot to be done surely, but Shanti has clear targets and goals set for the first year and herself. “My aim is to create awareness, increase members and concentrate on the programmes. The rest will follow,” she adds with confidence.