Avala Hejje, the Women’s Empowerment Wing, is committed to promoting gender equality and amplifying women’s voices across all spheres. Meaning “Her Steps”, Avala Hejje was launched in 2017 by Shanthala Damle as a social initiative envisioning women's footprints visible everywhere—from playgrounds to boardrooms. In 2024, it evolved into the Women’s Empowerment Wing of the Gubbivani Trust.
The core initiatives of the Women’s Empowerment Wing include workshops designed to equip aspiring women with the skills needed to take bold steps toward their goals, to help them challenge and transcend social prejudices, and to create a supportive platform where women uplift and empower one another in pursuit of their dreams.
Workshops
We conduct workshops on gender sensitivity, menstrual health, menopause, and personality development. In collaboration with other organizations, various skill development training will also be organized.
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Platform for Amplifying Women’s Voices
Programs such as passion shows, Bombe Habba (doll festival), webinar series, theatre competitions, interview series, panel discussions, and short film festivals are organized with the core intent of providing a platform for women's experiences and perspectives, and to promote gender equality. Click here for more details about past events.
Avala Hejje Short Film Festival
Started in 2025, this festival is not just a short film competition. Without women behind the camera, we run the risk of limiting female characters to just glamour. The primary aim of this festival is to promote women empowerment and develop into a cultural movement by encouraging women directors to effectively portray women’s lives, stories, and viewpoints through the powerful medium of cinema.
Click here for the selected films and other details about "Avala Hejje Short Film Festival"