LifeConnect Nagaland on Tuesday launched “Connect Handmade Naga” initiative at the LifeConnect Nagaland Centre in Kohima.
At the launching programme, special guest Martha R. Ritse, commissioner and secretary department of Social Welfare in her address, commended LifeConnect for the inspiring work in healing, restoring, and empowering marginalized sections of society.
She emphasized the organization’s holistic approach, which focuses on the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and economic well-being of individuals.
Ritse praised Sali Kez Ngully, founder of LifeConnect Nagaland, for her visionary leadership and dedication to help vulnerable women lead lives of dignity and achieve their fullest potential.
“Women hold a special place in Naga society, yet many find themselves in vulnerable and insecure circumstances. LifeConnect’s initiatives are a beacon of hope, enabling these women to realize their worth and live with dignity and respect,” she said.
She also acknowledged the critical role of NGOs like LifeConnect in complementing government efforts. “No matter how vast its scope, the government alone cannot reach everyone. LifeConnect, with its dedicated volunteers, staff, and partnerships, is driving consequential change and should be encouraged and replicated across Kohima and the state,” Ritse added.
Guest of honour Colonel Tarun Rana, Commandant of the 13 Assam Rifles expressed heartfelt gratitude to LifeConnect Nagaland for the unwavering commitment in creating a positive impact in the community. He described Connect Handmade Naga as more than just an initiative—but a movement that uplifts, strengthens, and nurtures the incredible talent of Naga women artisans.
The event was blessed by prayer and dedication ceremony led by pastor Mhonchumo S. Lotha of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church. Connect Handmade Naga aims to create income opportunities and job for women, offer training programs to help women gain marketable skills, leadership opportunities; encourage women to take on leadership roles in both the non-profit and social enterprise, focus on marginalized women, providing an alternative source of livelihood and creating lasting change, design programs that can be replicated and scaled across villages and towns in the state, generate revenue to fund nonprofit activities and ensure long-term impact.