There are ample examples of women who have ventured out of their comfort zones to bring changes in the society. Sigma, the student wing of XLRI, decided to salute that spirit at the two-day social entrepreneurship conclave that kicked off on Saturday.

Based on the theme “women changemakers in social sector”, the conclave organised by Sigma seeks to bring together 18 women speakers who have made significant contributions in areas such as environment, trafficking and rural development.

Mumbai-based social activist, recipient of Nari Shakti Puraskar and founder of Mann Deshi Foundation Chetna Gala Sinha was chief guest. Sinha is also the founder and chairperson of Mann Deshi Mahila Sahakari Bank that caters to the needs of rural women micro-entrepreneurs.

“I have had the chance to meet some very ordinary women who have done extraordinary things. You may acquire bookish knowledge in academic institutions, but when you need wisdom, you find it in people close to nature and earth,” Sinha said.

Guest speakers who talked about “restoring disempowered lives” were Smarita Sengupta, founder of NGO Destiny Reflection, Sonal Kapoor, founder director of NGO Protsahan India Foundation, and Sohini Bhattacharya, president and CEO of global human rights outfit Breakthrough.

The session on “strengthening the grassroots” featured Sumita Ghose, founder of community owned craft company Rangasutra; programme leader of Child in Need Institute Mala Roy; president of nonprofit Hand in Hand India.

On Sunday, sessions will be held on building the ecosystem for social entrepreneurs, skilling for inclusion and initiatives for environmental sustainability.