In a remarkable display of talent and empowerment, eight young women from rural India, part of the M3M Foundation’s ‘Dream Weavers’ initiative, made their backstage debut at the Times Lifestyle Fashion Week in Gurugram. Working alongside some of the biggest names in Indian fashion — including the legendary Neeta Lulla — these young women played a vital role in executing the show, supporting designers with tasks ranging from model dressing to look coordination.
Trained last year by the Jaipur-based start-up Jaipuri Banno, the Dream Weavers transitioned seamlessly into the high-pressure world of fashion production. Their involvement signaled more than just participation — it marked a pivotal step in their journey from rural obscurity to professional promise.
Held at the Grand Hyatt Gurugram, the fashion week showcased the work of nine celebrated designers: Neeta Lulla, Shweta Aggarwal, Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor, Charu Parashar, Prarena Grover, Rajdeep Ranawat, Reynu Taandon, Samant Chauhan, and Varija Bajaj. While the spotlight was on high fashion, the presence of these young women backstage drew attention to a deeper narrative — one of inclusion, equity, and transformative opportunity.
“The impact here is real and tangible,” said Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation. “This is where fashion intersects with purpose. Giving these girls access to a platform of this scale is not just about exposure — it’s about creating equity and inspiring lasting social change.”
The Dream Weavers’ contributions extended beyond technical tasks. In a touching gesture of gratitude and pride, each young participant presented handcrafted couture scarves to the designers, symbolizing their appreciation and artistic spirit.
Aishwarya Bansal, Trustee of M3M Foundation and Co-founder of Smart World Developers, was present to witness the milestone. The initiative, she noted, reflects a broader vision of grassroots transformation driven by skill development and creative empowerment.
The Times Lifestyle Fashion Week wasn’t the Dream Weavers’ first brush with the spotlight. Last year, they unveiled a 16-piece traditional Indian wear collection that was showcased by both national and international models. This year’s behind-the-scenes experience offered them a new dimension of learning and growth, reinforcing M3M Foundation’s mission to bridge rural talent with urban opportunity.
As the runway glowed under the camera flashes, it wasn’t just couture that turned heads — it was the story of eight young women whose dreams are no longer distant, but decisively within reach.
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