How Did Maitri Transform a Grocery Trip into a Woman Empowerment Initiative?

It all began on a grocery shopping trip. Pushing their carts, two mommy friends got brainstorming how one of them could bring her mithai business from their home country to Canada. As they strolled through the aisles, the conversation evolved into involving more women in the initiative. Why not do a small pop-up market that could help women discover and pursue their hidden talents and passions? This led to the creation of an informally structured initiative called Maitri , with an apt tagline – unveiling the hidden talents.

Mudita Shukla and Priya Kolekar, the founders, launched their first pop-up market on March 5, 2022, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Their aim was to make it affordable for women to follow their dreams, starting with tables priced at $35 , celebrating women’s day at the Hindu Heritage temple.

Their first event was such a huge success that the women wanted to do it again the same year . So their second market followed the same year in October

Since then, they have continued to hold the market each year, committed to their mission of helping women explore and showcase their skills, talents and passions.

This year, the event will take place for the fourth time on Saturday, August 17th, at the Vic Johnson Community Centre, and will highlight the diverse skills and talents of women.

Attendees will find a variety of offerings, including traditional and modern jewelry, food, home decor, sweets, spices, puja items, fresh flowers, sarees, children’s bags and decor, and paintings. There will also be activities for kids, a bouncy castle, and delicious food options like a live dosa counter.

The market is set to run from 12:00 noon to 7:00 pm at the hazel mccallion hall, Vic Johnston Community Centre,335 Church St, Mississauga, ON L5M 1N1 in Mississauga.

The market is an excellent platform for women to not just showcase their products and services but also to connect , network and explore new possibilities.