At the venerable age of 93, Sister Marie Lillian continues to inspire through her unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women in Bangladesh.
In 1973, she co-founded Corr The Jute Works (CJW), an organization that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in Dhaka. CJW's primary mission is to train and empower marginalized people, particularly women, persons with disabilities, and indigenous populations.
The organization aims to ensure trade equity, market access, and improved living conditions for these vulnerable groups. Today, CJW employs more than 6,000 women who produce various handicrafts, primarily from jute. This work allows them to gain economic independence, thereby transforming their lives and those of their families.
Sister Marie Lillian's journey is remarkable. She entered religious life in 1951, initially working as a teacher before dedicating herself to the vocational training of the most impoverished women. The Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 was a turning point, leaving many widows in need.
It was in this context that CJW was born, initially as a project of Caritas Bangladesh. The organization overcame many challenges, including cultural ones, in a majority-Muslim country where, 50 years ago, women rarely left their homes. Thanks to the perseverance of Sister Marie Lillian and her team, mindsets gradually evolved. CJW now exports its products to about thirty countries, a testament to its success and impact.
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The organization has also established a security fund for its elderly artisans, ensuring them a dignified life in retirement. For Sister Marie Lillian, the beauty of CJW lies in its ability to make women autonomous and respected within their families and society. The use of local and environmentally friendly resources, like jute, adds an ecological dimension to their mission.
The story of CJW and Sister Marie Lillian is a powerful testament to how commitment, perseverance, and faith can transform lives and entire communities. Their work continues to inspire and empower women in Bangladesh, creating a lasting legacy of hope and positive change.