A Journey of Hope: Kajal’s Path from a Tea Stall to the Classroom

11/06/24

Success Stories

97

In the bustling streets of Khanpur, Delhi, where the aroma of ‘chai’ mingles with the rhythm of daily life, I first encountered Kajal. She was a 10-year-old girl with a radiant smile, tirelessly helping her father run their small tea stall. Her hands were busy serving customers, but her eyes sparkled with unspoken dreams of a better future.
Kajal’s story is a testament to the power of hope and the transformative power of education. In 2023, Bal Raksha Bharat’s Project “Room to Grow” launched a mission to bring education to Delhi’s marginalized children. Among those children was Kajal, whose potential was overshadowed by her family’s struggles.

During our door-to-door mobilization, we found Kajal and her siblings. I remember the moment we offered them a chance to join our Multi Activity Centre (MAC) – a beacon of hope for so many children like them. Kajal’s eyes lit up with a mixture of disbelief and joy. It was as if, for the first time, she could see a glimmer of her dreams within reach.

At the MAC, Kajal and her sister Archana thrived. Their natural intelligence and communication skills soon became apparent. They quickly adapted to their new environment, eagerly absorbing every lesson and becoming role models for other children. Watching them transform from shy students to confident mentors was nothing short of miraculous.
The support extended beyond the classroom. We helped Kajal and her siblings correct necessary documentation and set up bank accounts. Through government schemes like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, we provided them with a financial safety net, ensuring they had the tools to secure their futures.

The dedication of our team and the holistic support provided helped Kajal and her siblings break free from their circumstances. Enrolling in school was not just a step forward; it was a leap towards a future filled with possibilities.

Kajal’s father shared his heartfelt gratitude: “Every parent wants their child to have a secure future… Somehow, in the post-pandemic situation, I had surrendered to the fate of myself and my children. Their untiring effort and relentless follow-up with me by the team of Bal Raksha Bharat to send my children to the MAC have yielded results. As a parent, I feel quite proud.”

Kajal’s journey from a tea stall to the classroom is more than a story of overcoming adversity. It’s a powerful reminder that with the right support and opportunities, every child can achieve their dreams. Her resilience and determination are a testament to the enduring human spirit and the life-changing impact of education.

Soumi Halder

Manager-Program Campaign and Communication, Programme Support

“With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the social development sector, I am passionate about championing child rights and community empowerment through innovative communication strategies. I am Manager for Programme Campaigns and Communication with Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children)."