She Creates Change Odisha was the first initiative that laid the foundation for Safe Odisha For Her (SOFH). It was a citizen-led movement driven by women and transwomen changemakers across the state, launched with the belief that language, geography, or background should never limit someone’s ability to lead change. Supported by Changedotorg Foundation and NGUVU Collective, the initiative began with its first lab in Bhubaneswar in September 2019 and has since supported 69 grassroots changemakers across three cohorts. Together, they have launched over 30 petitions addressing issues such as gender equality in policing, access to education, menstrual health, environmental protection, and transgender rights.
One of the most powerful outcomes was Ranjeeta’s petition on paid period leave, which led to a significant policy change in Odisha. Through mentorship, peer support, and training in local languages, She Creates Change Odisha has shown how strong local leadership can shape public conversation and influence policy. It became the stepping stone for SOFH to emerge as a formal organization.
