Arshiya* is 18 years old and currently lives at the Udaan Aftercare hostel in Mumbai. She was born in Kolkata and spent her early years in one of the oldest and most congested red-light areas of Mumbai, where her mother worked in the sex trade. The area was unsafe, filled with risks like violence, substance abuse, and trafficking. Arshiya’s mother had little means to protect her, and life was very difficult. In 2012, Arshiya’s mother came in contact with Sahaara staff, who explained the benefits of Anandalay—a hostel for minor girls run by Sahaara. Wanting safety and a better future for her daughter, she agreed to send Arshiya there.
Arshiya settled into Anandalay quickly. She was enrolled in a good English-medium school and received all the support she needed—safe shelter, food, school supplies, and tuition support. Sahaara also gave her regular life skills sessions, emotional support, and opportunities to grow. Arshiya did very well in her studies and passed her Grade 12 board exam with a distinction. She is now studying for a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Economics at a well-known college in Mumbai.
Sahaara continues to guide Arshiya in many areas of life. In the last few months, she has attended sessions on self-acceptance, assertiveness, and stress management. She is also active in hobbies like reading, football, Zumba, and arts and crafts. As part of giving back, Arshiya recently volunteered at Sahaara’s hostel for younger girls during her vacation. She helped staff take care of one girl who was unwell, showing kindness and maturity. This change—from receiving support to offering support—shows how much she has grown.
Arshiya’s move to Udaan Aftercare has gone smoothly. It is a self-run hostel where girls manage cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Arshiya is learning these tasks and is slowly becoming more independent. Her emotional maturity has also improved, and counselling sessions help her manage her feelings in healthy ways.
Her father, though not with her every day, stays in touch through weekly calls. He also spends time with her during holidays and is proud of her progress. He said, “I am at peace knowing my daughter is in the right place. I don’t have to worry anymore. Thank you so much, Sahaara.”
Arshiya says, “Being in the aftercare facility has given me the opportunity to be part of a community that values both academic achievement and personal growth. I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity.”
Arshiya dreams of becoming an IAS officer one day, so she can help others and bring positive change in society. With continued support from Sahaara, her future looks bright.
(Names changed to protect identities.)