On most days, Anju* can be found quietly sitting with her books, focused on her Grade 10 studies. She does not speak loudly or draw attention to herself. She is calm, thoughtful, and observant. But when she speaks about her future, there is a quiet confidence in her voice.
Anju dreams of becoming a banker.
For a girl whose early years were marked by uncertainty, this dream is more than a career choice. It is a picture of stability, dignity, and a future she is slowly learning to believe in.
Anju came to Sahaara’s Anandalay Girls’ Hostel in 2013, when she was still a young child. Her childhood had already carried more insecurity than any child should have to face. Her family situation was unstable. Her mother was living in a rehabilitation centre after exiting commercial sexual exploitation, while her father’s presence in the family had earlier contributed to further uncertainty. Her elder sister was already staying at Anandalay, and this gave Anju a familiar connection in an otherwise difficult season.
When Anju first arrived at Anandalay, she was quiet and withdrawn. She found it difficult to trust people. Expressing her feelings did not come easily to her. At times, her insecurity came out as anger, and she struggled to adjust to the structure and safety of hostel life. For a child who had known uncertainty, even a safe place needed time to feel like home.
Over the years, Anandalay became that place for her.
At the hostel, Anju received consistent care for her education, health, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth. She was enrolled in an English-medium school and supported through tuition and additional academic help whenever needed. Along with her studies, she participated in life skills sessions, sports, Zumba, daily exercise, and other activities that helped her grow in confidence, communication, decision-making, and self-discipline.
Regular counselling and patient guidance from the staff helped Anju slowly open up. She began to understand her emotions better. She learnt to express herself more calmly and confidently. The safe routines of the hostel, nutritious meals, health monitoring, and daily encouragement gave her the stability she needed to grow.
Anju still remains naturally quiet and introverted, but she is no longer the withdrawn child who first came to Anandalay. Today, she is more confident, caring, responsible, and helpful towards others. She has learnt to participate, to ask for support, and to take steady steps towards her goals.
Her family has also played an important role in her journey. Her mother, who has successfully reintegrated after exiting sex work, continues to stay involved in Anju’s life through regular phone calls, visits to Anandalay, and participation in parent meetings. Anju has also developed a stronger bond with her elder sister, which has given her valuable emotional support. Her father passed away eight years ago, but Anju’s journey has continued with the support of her mother, sister, and the Sahaara team.
Reflecting on her journey, Anju says, “Anandalay and Sahaara have given me a safe place to grow, learn, and dream of a better future. The support and guidance I have received have made me more confident, and I hope to build a successful career and make my family proud.”
Her mother shares, “I am grateful that Anju is receiving quality care, education, and support at Anandalay. I have seen positive changes in her, and I hope she becomes independent and achieves her dreams.”
Today, Anju is preparing for her Grade 10 examination and continues to dream of becoming a banker. Her journey is still unfolding, but she is no longer walking it alone. With continued care, education, counselling, and life skills support, Anju is building the confidence and strength she needs for the future.
*Name changed to protect identity