Book launch celebrates 37-year journey of empowering marginalised women in India
Earlier this month, the CHASS Wellbeing research team launched their latest publication, Empowering Marginalised Women in Remote Indian Villages, co-authored by Professor Udoy Saikia, Associate Professor James Chalmers, Professor Janice Orrell and Dr Dency Michael (from India). Published by Routledge, the book documents the remarkable 37-year legacy of the Kodi Grihini program in Tamil Nadu, India — a grassroots initiative that has been instrumental in empowering marginalised, tribal and Dalit women in remote villages.
Under the visionary leadership of Akka Dency Michael, Grihini has transformed lives by equipping women with the skills and knowledge to secure the necessities of life, achieve empowerment, and overcome caste-based oppression.
Grihini’s journey thus far has demonstrated the profound impact of adult education in fostering self-reliance and community development. However, to ensure the long-term sustainability of Grihini’s mission, it must continue to evolve and adapt through research—an iterative process that not only studies change but actively contributes to it.
The launch event featured a heartfelt review by Professor Eileen Willis, whose reflections resonated deeply with the audience. Dr Dency Michael joined the event virtually from India, delivering insightful responses during the audience Q&A session.
The book launch was not only a celebration of scholarship but also a tribute to resilience, justice, and the transformative power of community-led development. The book is available open access here.
Leading researchers and innovators recognised
Congratulations to Associate Professor Aileen Collier and Dr Lauren Lines who were named as finalists in the 2025 South Australian Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards. Both Associate Professor Collier and Dr Lines were finalists in the Excellence in Research and Innovation category.
Documentary screening fundraiser in Adelaide’s northern suburbs
With assistance from Flinders’ Caring Futures Institute, a special screening of the film Songs Inside will be presented at the Shedley Theatre on Wednesday 14 May 2025. Supported by the City of Playford, it will be followed by supper and a Q&A with filmmakers, film participants and Raelene Wlochowicz, Founder of the Playford Women’s Shed.
The film is Songs Inside – is a feature documentary by filmmaker Shalom Almond and winner of the Best Documentary award at Adelaide Film Festival – that chronicles the transformative journey of a group of women from the Adelaide Women’s Prison who, over six months, discover the healing power of music. The creative process unearths profound struggles with trauma and addiction, demonstrating that even within the complexities of prison life, music can serve as a universal force for healing and hope. Led by Barkindji singer-songwriter Nancy Bates, their journey culminates in a historic performance—the largest concert ever staged within an Australian prison—featuring the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.
Tickets $15 adults, $10 concession, free for under 18, includes supper provided by The Playford Women’s Shed. All proceeds will go towards the Playford Women’s Shed.
Purchase tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/DBECI