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.)

The post From Shadows to Strength – Arshiya’s Journey Forward appeared first on Sahaara Charitable Society.

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.)

The post Becoming Bold appeared first on Sahaara Charitable Society.

When Nisha turned 18, she transitioned to Udaan Aftercare Hostel, a place specially designed to support girls graduating from Anandalay and Krupalay hostels as they navigate life’s next chapter. This new environment allowed her to grow further, both personally and academically. Now, Nisha is a First Year Bachelor of Arts (FYBA) student at one of the best colleges in the city, a place she had long dreamt of attending.

Starting college in July 2024 marked a new chapter of excitement and fulfillment for Nisha. Gone are the days of studying alone online; now, she thrives in a vibrant campus atmosphere, surrounded by new friends and live lectures. Every day brings fresh energy and learning opportunities, and she hasn’t felt bored for a moment.

Nisha’s talent for singing was noticed in her college, and she was soon offered a chance to volunteer at the Mumbai University Singing Competition. Her college had students participating in various categories, and Nisha embraced the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious event. The experience has filled her with enthusiasm, and she is eagerly looking forward to representing her college in singing next year.

Beyond her academic and singing pursuits, Nisha’s interests are vast. She loves cooking, baking, gardening, and exploring art and craft. Her creativity shines through in her work, as seen during the first anniversary of Udaan Aftercare Hostel, where she crafted beautiful pen stands out of paper to give as gifts to all the attendees.

In her three months at Udaan, Nisha has learned invaluable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and maintaining a positive attitude towards life. She’s also acquired essential independent living skills, equipping her for the future. The steady progress she’s made is a testament to her determination and the support she’s received from Sahaara.

Nisha is filled with gratitude for Sahaara’s unwavering support throughout her journey. College life is everything she hoped for, and she eagerly anticipates the many new experiences yet to come. After completing her graduation, Nisha plans to pursue law, with the dream of becoming a lawyer who can help restore families. Her heart is set on being a beacon of hope for others, just as Sahaara has been for her.

*Name changed to protect participant identity.

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Sahaara’s Anandalay Hostel provided Mamta with food, clothing, and shelter, ensuring her well-being throughout her childhood. When she turned 18, she transitioned to Udaan Aftercare Hostel, where young women receive guidance as they step into adulthood. Here, Mamta had access to mentoring, individual counseling, and skill-building sessions. She participated in practical training on cooking, conflict resolution, and independent travel, preparing her for a self-sufficient life. She also attended workshops on digital skills, time management, and leadership, which helped her develop essential abilities for her future career.  

At Udaan, Mamta had an environment that allowed her to focus on her studies. With the encouragement of the hostel warden and staff, she successfully completed her 12th grade with a score of 72%. She is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree while also enrolling in a digital and graphic design course. Sahaara’s support has helped her discover and nurture her creative side, allowing her to explore painting and dance. She even participated in her first college dance competition. Initially hesitant, she joined the team after a friend encouraged her. Despite an injury, she gave her best and was thrilled to win second place.  

Mamta’s mother remains actively involved in her education, paying her hostel fees and attending meetings to stay connected with her progress. Her younger sister continues to receive care at Anandalay Hostel, ensuring that the family remains supported. The reintegration team maintains regular contact with Mamta’s mother, offering guidance as needed to help the family achieve long-term stability.  

“Participating in my first college dance competition was unforgettable. At first, I wasn’t planning to perform, but my friend insisted. We worked hard, and despite my injury, I gave my best. Winning second place felt amazing. I am grateful for everything I’ve learned at Udaan. It has helped me grow and dream of becoming a graphic designer,” says Mamta. Her mother shares, “I am very thankful for Sahaara’s support. Mamta has become confident, independent, and focused on her future. Her interest in studies and creative talents makes me proud. I am happy to see her progress.”  

*Names changed to protect identities.

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Kanta lived with another care leaver and the warden, and she started her journey to become independent and responsible. In the beginning, it was hard for her to take on the hostel chores, and this led to conflicts between her and the other care leaver. Despite these challenges and arguments, Kanta eventually grew and learned from every problem she faced.

One big moment came when Kanta took on extra duties to help her fellow care leaver who was preparing for her 12th Grade board exams. Kanta herself was already attending college, going to tuitions, and managing her own studies along with her daily chores and hostel duties. It was not easy to balance these responsibilities, but Kanta stepped up and helped out in the interest of the other care leaver. This was an exemplary display of selflessness and sisterhood by Kanta. Even when she was very tired, Kanta stayed committed to her duties, with the support of the hostel warden.

Kanta’s actions showed her good heart, teamwork, responsibility, and service. She set a great example for others to follow. Her kindness created a special bond between her and the other care leaver. This bond was clear when the care leaver, who scored 72% in her 12th Grade board exams, thanked everyone who helped her, especially Kanta, who supported her all the way. Kanta herself felt rewarded when she got a distinction in her 11th Grade exams!

Now, as Kanta prepares for her own 12th Grade board exams this year, she continues to do all her duties at the hostel without asking for any special treatment. We believe that Kanta will keep doing well in her life and studies.

Kanta dreams of becoming a counsellor. Her journey at the Udaan Aftercare Hostel is preparing her for the future and teaching her the skills she needs to live independently and successfully. We are sure she will keep inspiring others and achieve great success in everything she does.

*Name changed to protect participant identity.

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