Meera* was just five years old when she was brought to Anandalay Girls’ Hostel. Before that, she had lived in the red-light area of Ghatkopar, where her mother was caught in the sex trade. Meera spent long hours alone in a small, unsafe space. With no one to care for her and exposed daily to strangers and risky surroundings, her safety and future were uncertain. After regular counselling by Sahaara’s field staff, her mother made the brave decision to admit her into the hostel in March 2012.
At first, Meera found it hard to adjust. She missed her family deeply and cried often. But slowly, she settled in, thanks to the care and attention given to her by the staff. The structured and nurturing environment helped her grow in every area—physically, emotionally, and mentally. She studied in an English-medium school and received tutoring and encouragement from the hostel team. Over the next 12 years, Meera grew into a bright, caring and talented young woman.
In July 2024, after turning 18, she moved to Sahaara’s Udaan Aftercare Hostel. This space is designed to help young adults prepare for independent life. At Udaan, Meera is supported in many ways. She continues to receive help for her education, including guidance for her studies and career. She attends life skills sessions, counselling, and regular mentoring. She is also learning about job readiness, money management, travelling independently, and time management. Udaan ensures that she is well-fed, stays healthy through medical care, and is surrounded by a family-like environment where she feels safe and accepted.
Since joining Udaan, Meera has grown in confidence. She has learnt to cook, shop for herself, and manage her own time. Earlier, she preferred to be alone, but now she enjoys spending time with others at the hostel and has even made friends in college—something she once struggled with. She enjoys reading and writing stories, especially fiction and adventure. She also loves painting on canvas and exploring her creative side.
In March 2024, Meera appeared for her 12th grade exams and is awaiting her results. She is also a football player and helped her team win first place in her college’s sports competition, which led to her selection for inter-college football matches. She says, “I’ve become a person I never thought I would. I feel strong and bold, ready to take the next step and explore more in life. And soon, I will be fully ready.”
Meera’s younger brother is also supported by Sahaara and lives at Mahima Hostel, where he recently completed his 10th Grade Board exams—a meaningful milestone in his educational journey. Their mother, who exited the sex trade with support from Sahaara, now lives independently and stays closely connected to both children. She visits whenever she can, takes them home during hostel vacations, and contributes a small monthly fee toward Meera’s stay at the hostel. Her steady involvement has helped strengthen the family bond. Grateful for the support her family has received, she shared, “If it weren’t for Sahaara, I don’t know where my children and I would be.”
Meera dreams of becoming a journalist. With the continued support from Sahaara, she is building a bright and independent future.
(Names changed to protect identities.)