V Margatham from Cuddalore made a firm decision last year. She wanted to run as an independent candidate in the upcoming assembly election. However, she faced a significant challenge. She did not know how to reach voters effectively.
Finding a Path Through Thenkoodu
Margatham discovered a solution when she learned about 'Thenkoodu'. This is a political training and mentorship initiative. The Penn Collective (TPC), a Chennai-based non-partisan organisation, launched it. Harvard Kennedy School supports the program.
Margatham immediately signed up. The program aims to equip women who aspire to contest elections. It provides political knowledge, campaigning strategic tools, and leadership skills.
Another Aspirant Joins the Program
Nilavazhagi S from Tiruvallur also joined Thenkoodu. She decided to contest as an independent candidate after studying her village panchayat's functioning for her master's research.
"Women were formally represented but decision-making remained in the hands of men. I want to change that," Nilavazhagi says. Her academic work revealed a clear gender gap in local governance.
Addressing Systemic Barriers for Women
Poorani C, founder of TPC, explains the program's necessity. She works in gender and labour rights. "Women are usually pushed into electoral roles as proxy candidates or enter politics late in life due to caregiving responsibilities," Poorani states.
She highlights another critical issue. "Most political training is offered only after women are elected. They don't have public spaces such as tea shops or street corners, where politics is openly discussed."
Thenkoodu is specifically designed for women who want to contest but lack access to preparatory spaces. It creates a structured environment for learning and preparation.
Program Structure and Eligibility
The free nine-month programme is open to women and transwomen aged 21 to 45. It welcomes participants from all political parties as well as independent candidates.
The training includes several key components:
- A one-week residential training session
- Modules on governance and election procedures
- Campaigning and fundraising strategies
- Budgeting and public speaking skills
- Civic engagement techniques
Practical Campaigning Strategies
Poorani emphasizes community engagement as a core teaching. "One of the most important campaigning strategies we will be teaching the women is engaging with the community," she says.
She provides a concrete example from TPC's work. During a social mapping of Budur village in Chengalpet, they found women faced harassment when defecating in the open due to a lack of public toilets.
"A political candidate of this panchayat can work on solving this issue," Poorani explains. The training connects local problems with potential political solutions.
Learning from Global Campaigns
Alongside local case studies, TPC will discuss contemporary political campaigns. They will analyze New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's campaign, focusing on how he mobilised public support and funds.
This global perspective helps participants understand diverse campaigning methods and successful strategies from different contexts.
Interested individuals can register for this free programme. They can reach out to 9629020856 for more details and application information.
