The Holistic Empowerment workshop, organized by the Conference of Religious Women India (CRWI), brought together religious women from across India for a five-day transformative journey at the CRI House in Delhi. The program aimed to foster personal growth, leadership, emotional intelligence, and community life, providing participants with the tools they need to effect positive change in their lives and communities.
The workshop began with a strong focus on self-awareness and reflection. Participants were guided to introspect on their strengths, weaknesses, and personal motivations. Through activities and group discussions, they explored the Japanese concept of Ikigai—finding purpose in life—and were introduced to practical methods for boosting self-esteem, such as journaling and assertiveness training.
As the workshop progressed, participants were encouraged to delve deeper into their subconscious mind and explore how deeply ingrained beliefs influence their behaviors. Through practical exercises, they learned the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and embracing new challenges. This was complemented by sessions on emotional intelligence, where participants developed skills in self-awareness, social awareness, and relationship management, all essential for effective leadership and communication.
The program also strongly emphasised community life and building emotional connections. Participants engaged in exercises to foster empathy and understanding, learning how to connect deeply with others and create a supportive environment. Practical insights on resolving conflicts, fostering forgiveness, and avoiding gossip were shared, enabling participants to strengthen their communities.
Leadership was another key focus, with Fr. Donald D'Souza introducing eight principles of servant leadership. Participants learned how to lead purposefully, manage with heart, and create a lasting legacy.
An important segment of the program addressed abuse awareness and prevention. Sr. Elsa introduced participants to the Grievances Redressal Cell (GRC), explaining the Church’s teachings on abuse and harassment, and outlining the measures that can be taken to protect both themselves and vulnerable individuals. This was followed by group sharing, where participants discussed personal experiences of abuse. After lunch, Sr. Mary Scaria, a Supreme Court lawyer, provided legal guidance on stopping abuse. As a member of the GRC, she also elaborated on how religious individuals can seek assistance from the cell and protect their communities from harassment.
The workshop concluded with a reflective session, during which participants expressed gratitude and recaptured the program's key lessons. The Holistic Empowerment journey empowered the religious women to embrace self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and leadership, enabling them to lead with compassion and purpose in their personal and communal lives.
This transformative program enhanced personal growth and strengthened the participants’ commitment to fostering positive change in their communities, making it a holistic journey towards personal and societal transformation.