In the quiet village of Laitlawsnai, in Meghalaya, a young woman’s dream was about to rise like the perfect loaf of bread. Shimtimery Shangpliang, the seventh daughter of a women farmer, harbored an ambition that seemed as unlikely as finding a gourmet bakery in her remote community. Yet, her story would soon prove that with the right ingredients of passion, perseverance, and support, even the most improbable dreams can become a recipe for success.

Shimtimery’s journey began with a simple desire to create something extraordinary. In a family where tilling the soil was the norm, her aspirations to master the art of baking were met with raised eyebrows and skeptical smiles. But Shimtimery was determined to prove that she could knead her dreams into reality.

When the chance to attend a five-day bakery training program under the Livelihood Upgradation Initiative arrived, Shimtimery seized it with both hands. This initial exposure was like the first bite of a delectable pastry – it left her craving for more. The spark ignited during this training soon blazed into a passionate fire, driving her to seek further knowledge and skills.

Recognizing Shimtimery’s potential, the Nongstoin Social Service Society (NSSS), under the FARM Northeast program, selected her as a beneficiary for receiving an oven in October 2022. This simple appliance became the cornerstone of her burgeoning enterprise, a symbol of the trust placed in her abilities and the catalyst for her transformation from a dreamer to a doer.

Initially, selling her baked goods was as challenging as perfecting a soufflé. Markets were unfamiliar, and demand was as scarce as rain in a desert. But Shimtimery’s determination proved to be her secret ingredient. She started small, selling to nearby villagers, gradually building a reputation for quality and innovation.

As Shimtimery’s skills grew, so did her business. By September 2023, she had undergone advanced training in cake specialization and fondant techniques. Her network expanded through NSSS, Block level, and District-level platforms, allowing her to showcase her talent at numerous workshops and events.

What began as baking one or two cakes per month with a modest income of ₹500–₹1,000 soon blossomed into a thriving enterprise. Shimtimery now bakes 10–15 cakes monthly, earning an impressive ₹12,000–₹13,000. Her innovative creations, including millet cakes and squash cakes, have become the talk of exhibitions and local markets.

Shimtimery’s success is not just measured in rupees but in the lives she touches. As a certified trainer, she now imparts her knowledge to aspiring bakers from various villages. Her contributions to society, coupled with her entrepreneurial achievements, have earned her respect and admiration throughout the community.

Shimtimery’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and the impact of community-driven initiatives. The FARM Northeast program, implemented by Caritas India, provided the fertile ground for her aspirations to take root and flourish. By promoting self-sufficiency and resilience, the program has not only helped Shimtimery but has also planted the seeds of entrepreneurship throughout the region.

As Shimtimery continues to bake her way to success, she stands as a shining example of how determination, coupled with the right support, can turn the most unlikely dreams into a sweet reality. Her journey from the daughter of a women farmer to a respected entrepreneur is a story of hope, inspiration, and the transformative power of believing in oneself.

In the words of Mr. Batkular Lyndoh, Community Educator of FARM NE, “Her story is a testament to how dreams, when pursued with dedication and the right support, can not only change one’s life but also uplift an entire community”.

Shimtimery Shangpliang’s tale reminds us that with the right ingredients – a dash of opportunity, a sprinkle of support, and a generous helping of perseverance – anyone can cook up a recipe for success, no matter how humble their beginnings.