Reliance Foundation, Estée Lauder Foundation partner to reach 1 million girls in India

Reliance Foundation and The Estée Lauder Companies Charitable Foundation have partnered on a programme aimed at reaching one million girls and young women across India with training in life skills, digital and financial literacy, and education and livelihood opportunities.

The two-year programme will target girls aged 14 to 20 in rural and urban communities, starting in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh before expanding to other states, the organisations said on Wednesday.

The initiative will combine in-person and digital training, with grassroots organisations helping implement the programme. Non-profit Girl Effect is supporting the development of its curriculum and learning resources.

The training will focus on confidence-building, decision-making and leadership, alongside the safe use of digital tools and financial services. It will also provide information on pathways to further education, employment and entrepreneurship.

“I believe every girl should have the confidence to dream big, the courage to lead, and the opportunity to fulfil her aspirations,” said Isha Ambani, director at Reliance Foundation.

She said the partnership aims to equip girls and young women with skills to realise their potential and benefit their households and communities.

Focus on education and employment

Stéphane de La Faverie, president and chief executive officer of The Estée Lauder Companies and president of its charitable foundation, said the programme would help girls develop skills needed to participate in the workforce.

The Estée Lauder Companies Charitable Foundation has worked with non-governmental organisations in India for more than 20 years, supporting initiatives in health, education and entrepreneurship, according to the announcement.

Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Reliance Industries, said it has supported education, sports and livelihood opportunities for women and girls through various initiatives since 2010.

The organisations have not disclosed the programme's budget or the number of participants expected to be enrolled in each state.