The Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey (SNDT) Women's University will organise the Women’s Artisan Conclave 2026 on October 17 at its Juhu campus in Mumbai. This day-long event brings together women artisans, students, designers, buyers, institutions, NGOs, knowledge partners, and craft communities to celebrate and empower women’s craftsmanship.
- The event theme is “Celebrating Women. Honouring Craft. Empowering Stories.”
- It provides a platform for women artisans to showcase their work and connect with customers and communities.
- Expert sessions and panel discussions will address craft practices, livelihoods, marketing, and technology.
- Partners include IIT Bombay, Creador Foundation, Sewa Connect, and others supporting outreach, incubation, and finance.
- The conclave features exhibitions, demonstrations, film screening, prize distribution, and networking opportunities.
What is the purpose of the Women’s Artisan Conclave 2026?
The conclave aims to provide women artisans with a platform to showcase their crafts, interact with customers and communities, and gain exposure to knowledge, technology, and opportunities related to sustainable livelihoods. It celebrates women’s contributions to traditional and contemporary crafts while empowering their stories and entrepreneurship.
What activities are planned during the event?
The event will be held from 9 am to 5:30 pm at the J H Mini Auditorium and Foyer, Main Building, SNDTWU Juhu Campus. Activities include:
- Artisan exhibition and stall demonstrations
- Screening of the Women Artisans Conclave film
- Inaugural session with addresses by the Chief Guest and Guests of Honour
- Two panel discussions focusing on women artisans’ issues and opportunities
- Expert sessions with IIT Bombay and the Creador Foundation, including marketing and AI chatbot applications
- Networking opportunities and a closing ceremony with prize distribution and acknowledgements
Who are the partners involved in the conclave?
The conclave brings together partners from various fields to support women artisans:
- Sewa Connect (outreach partner)
- WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre (incubation partner)
- Anveshanam Foundation (event partner)
- Unnati Hub, IIT Bombay (session partner)
- Cafe Arpan (nutrition partner)
- Uplift Foundation and Rotary Club Juhu (prize supporters)
- IDFC (banking partner)
- Mahika (upcycled bag gifting partner)
- Creador Foundation (marketing and AI chatbot session partner)
How does the conclave support women artisans beyond the event?
The conclave connects women’s craftsmanship with broader opportunities in education, technology, entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, sustainability, and community engagement. By fostering collaborations and sharing knowledge, it aims to strengthen sustainable livelihoods and empower women artisans to expand their reach and impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where and when is the Women’s Artisan Conclave 2026 held?
A: It will take place on October 17, 2026, at the SNDT Women’s University Juhu campus in Mumbai, from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
Q: Who can participate in the conclave?
A: Women artisans, students, designers, buyers, institutions, NGOs, knowledge partners, and craft communities are invited to participate.
Q: What topics will the panel discussions cover?
A: The panels will focus on traditional craft practices, livelihoods, market opportunities, and recognition of women’s craft work.
Q: Are there any special sessions during the conclave?
A: Yes, expert sessions include marketing strategies and AI chatbot applications, conducted with partners like IIT Bombay and the Creador Foundation.
Q: How does the conclave support sustainable livelihoods?
A: By providing exposure to knowledge, technology, and networking, the conclave helps women artisans access new markets and opportunities for sustainable income.
