Dhryshta:Empowering Voices in the Informal Sector
A Collective Identity Initiative for Women Working in the Informal Sector.
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Sitaution
Women working in the informal sector, particularly in the grey economy, face significant stigma and invisibility. They are often wrongly associated with the black market, compounding their vulnerability and isolation. This lack of identity prevents them from accessing basic rights and protections, leaving them in a marginalized position.
Task
My role was to develop a solution that would empower women in the informal sector by providing them with a clear and dignified identity. The goal was to create a tool that differentiated them from the illegal economy while integrating seamlessly into their daily lives, ultimately helping them assert their rights.
Drshyta transformed a simple cultural practice into a powerful tool for identity, shifting how women in the informal sector are perceived and empowering them to claim their rights.
This 15-week design project originated from a common practice in India and globally—women keeping money and important items in their bras due to a lack of pockets in traditional attire. Drshyta began as a product to protect these items and evolved into a powerful symbol of identity and pride. The solution ensures adoption and lasting impact by incorporating familiar rituals like getting ready in the morning. Drshyta also educates women and employers about their rights under the law, helping to combat exploitation.
Research: Conducted extensive field research into the daily lives and challenges of informal workers, focusing on identifying cultural practices and pain points.
Design: Created Drshyta, a DIY badge and practical money pocket that women could incorporate into their morning routines. This product was designed to reflect their dignity and provide a clear distinction from the illegal economy.
Awareness Campaign: Developed an informational pamphlet to educate both workers and employers on the Domestic Worker Act, emphasizing rights and protections.
Cultural Integration: Leveraged cultural practices, such as women keeping money in their bras due to lack of pockets, to design a product that fits naturally into their daily rituals.
year
2019
timeframe
6 Weeks
contributions
Design Research & Strategy, Cultural Innovation Design, Rights Awareness Creation, Social Impact Solution Design
category
Artefacts
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Empowerment: Drshyta provided women with a tangible identity and pride, empowering them to assert their legitimacy in the workforce.
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Seamless integration into existing daily routines ensured widespread adoption, allowing women to differentiate themselves from the illegal economy.
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The accompanying pamphlet raised awareness about worker rights, helping reduce exploitation in the informal sector.
