Category Archives: Amazing Feats

Haji KS Sayeed Karnire Charitable Trust hands over 7 houses, foundation stone for 14 other laid

Padubidri (Udupi District), KARNATAKA :

Padubidri: 

The Haji KS Sayeed Karnire Charitable Trust handed over seven newly constructed houses and laid the foundation stone for fourteen more in Karnire on Sunday.

Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader, who inaugurated the houses, highlighted the significant impact of this initiative, noting that while owning a home is a universal dream, many are unable to realize it.

He commended the project as a model of compassion and inspiration, emphasizing that such achievements go beyond financial capability and reflect a commitment to serving marginalized communities. He expressed hope for more transformative projects from the trust in the future and wished the beneficiaries a life of peace and harmony in their new homes.

Managing Trustee K.S. Sheikh, presiding over the event, detailed the trust’s ambitious project to construct 50 houses on two and a half acres of land. Each house, valued at approximately ₹20 lakh, is fully furnished with modern amenities, including a kitchen, hall, two bedrooms, and a washing machine. Sheikh explained that these homes are provided to deserving families in Karnire who lack proper housing.

He further revealed that with the foundation stone being laid for the construction of 14 more houses. There is a plan to build 50 houses on this land again, on two and a half acres of land.

Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty lauded the trust for its compassionate service in sheltering the underprivileged.

Former MLA Mohiuddin Bava praised the legacy of Syeed Haji’s hard work, which has turned his family into a beacon of service and harmony. He remarked that the family’s actions have become a model for communal unity.

Federation of World Bunts Vice President Karnire Vishwanath Shetty said, “Even though I have added Karnire to my name, the credit for taking the small village of Karnire to the world level belongs to the Syeed Haji family. Karnire is a town where everyone lives in harmony, regardless of caste, religion or difference. While Hindus have helped in the reconstruction of the mosque here, the Muslim community has also joined hands in the construction of the Hindu temple.”

Speaking in the opening remarks, K.S. Ashraf recalled the guidance of his late parents, expressed his gratitude for their teachings of kindness and service, which continue to inspire the family’s charitable efforts. He said, “We should do good to people. Our father used to preach to wish others well. Seeing his preaching and service, we have continued it. It is a great loss that our father and mother are not with us today. If they were here, they would have been happy now.”

On this occasion, U.T. Khader honored K.S. Sheikh on behalf of Karnire Juma Masjid and Karnire Khidma Young Men’s Association.

Abdul Jalil MH of Design Plus Architects, contractor H.N.G.C. Hussain, and supervisor Ramesh Kotian were also recognized for their contributions.

Karnire Juma Masjid Qatheeb Umarul Farooq Saquafi performed the dua. Family elders M.K. Abdul Hamid Mulki, K.S. Aboobacker were present.

Also present during the program were Balkunje Grama Panchayat President Mamata D. Poonja, Harishchandra Shetty, Karnire Juma Masjid President Muhammad Ali, Adv. Bhaskar Shetty, Kote Shekhabba Kannangar, T.K. Muhammad Kote Palimaru, Karnire Harishchandra Shetty, Khidma Youngmen’s President Khidma B.N, Ismail, K.S. Ashfak.

K.S. Ashraf delivered the welcome address, K.S. Abdul Rahim offered a vote of thanks, and Muhammad Ali Kammaradi moderated the event.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 05th, 2025

Meet Humairah Shami: Kolkata’s Budding Karate Champion – A Tale of Talent, Perseverance and Dreams

Kolkata, WEST BENGAL :

Humairah After winning Championship in Thailand

Humairah Shami, a young Karate champion from Kolkata, has recently earned the honour of representing India at the 7th World Meet, scheduled to take place on May 8, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, at the Royal Rattanakosin Hotel. This prestigious event is organised by the World Martial Arts Council. Although she is thrilled about this incredible opportunity, Humairah faces a challenge – the limited financial resources that may prevent her from attending.

Her father, Shami Ahmed, repairs footwear for a living. But due to poor health, he cannot work regularly. Her mother, too, has been battling a serious illness for the past three years. Despite these challenges, Humairah, along with her siblings, who are in grades 7 and 10, continues to pursue her education with the support of relatives.

However, these obstacles have not dampened her spirit. Humairah’s determination to follow her dreams led her to enrol in a self-defence course at the Indian Karate Association. Encouraged by the academy’s founder, M.A. Ali, who seems to have recognised her potential and took her under his wing, she was trained free of charges. Humairah’s agility and passion for the sport enabled her to quickly master the karate techniques. It led her to qualify in the 45 kg weight category. She triumphed in every competition she entered.

In 2023-24, Humairah earned a gold medal in Thailand. Her journey to Thailand was made possible thanks to the support of her schoolteachers and well-wishers who contributed to her travel expenses. She was also honoured with the International Sports Award by King Sany Wijaya Nata Kusuma of the Padjadran Kingdom of Indonesia.

His Majesty the King Sany Wijaya Natakusuma of Padjadaran Kingdom Indonesia honouring Humairah with International sports award 2024 in Bangkok Thailand

Humairah has once again proven herself by qualifying to participate in the 2025 World Meet. Though she is still a blue belt and has a long way to go before earning the coveted black belt, her commitment remains unwavering. “I took up Karate for self-defence, and I will continue to persevere until I achieve my black belt,” she says.

Humairah’s talents extend beyond Karate. During her holidays, she completed a crash course in Mehendi (henna) designing, and now, in her spare time after school and studies, she applies Mehdi to fulfil orders and earn some money.

A grade 11 student at Anjuman Girls High School, Humairah lives in the vibrant, bustling lanes of Mufidul Islam Lane in Kolkata. Her siblings look up to her, and her teachers hold high expectations for her future.

Deeply religious, Humairah dreams of becoming a doctor. She believes that her faith in God will help her overcome any challenge that comes her way. “Being able to go to Thailand last year was an impossible dream that came true. So, I am confident that the hurdles ahead will also be overcome, as I have utmost faith in Allah,” she says with a hopeful smile.

At present, Humairah is striving to raise the funds necessary to attend the 7th World Meet. In a remarkable show of resilience, she is using her mehdi art to raise money for her dream. Each intricate design is a testament to her determination to break through financial barriers and make her country proud.

“Despite coming from a financially disadvantaged family, Humairah has excelled in every field she has touched. Her dedication and perseverance have earned her a place in the prestigious 7th World Meet, where she will represent India on the global stage. This is a golden opportunity for her,” says her coach and mentor, M.A. Ali.

He further appeals to all philanthropists, sponsors, and kind-hearted individuals to help Humairah overcome her financial challenges: “Humairah’s story is a call to action for those who wish to invest in a bright young talent. Sponsoring Humairah isn’t just an act of charity—it’s an investment in a future filled with hope, ambition, and success. Let us unite as a community to ensure that financial constraints do not dim the light of this rising star.”

Those who wish to help Humairah in her journey can contribute to the following bank account:

Account Holder Name: Humairah Shami
Bank Name: Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Branch Name: Entally
Account Number: 0088010367851
IFSC Code: PUNB0008820
Mobile Number: 7439884641

With the help of the community, Humairah can realise her dreams and take another step towards making India proud on the world stage.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News / by Nikhat Fatima, TwoCirlces.net / December 31st, 2024

Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed Receives Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025

Gulbarga, KARNATAKA / SAUDI ARABIA :

Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed, a renowned Indian physician based in Saudi Arabia, has been honoured with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025, the highest recognition given by the Government of India to overseas Indians. This accolade celebrates his exceptional contributions to healthcare, community welfare, and fostering stronger ties between India and Saudi Arabia.

With an illustrious career spanning over 45 years, Dr. Khursheed has held pivotal roles, including three decades of service at King Faisal Hospital and 10 years as a Royal Protocol Physician at the National Guard Hospital. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was a beacon of support for the Indian diaspora, offering essential healthcare, vaccine advocacy, and 24/7 consultations. He also provided unwavering support to Indian pilgrims during Hajj, offering medical assistance at Mina and Arafat for over 30 years. Notably, he served as the personal physician to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Khursheed’s contributions extend beyond healthcare to education and community development.

He established the International Indian School in Taif, promoting academic excellence and cultural integration for Indian expatriates.

His philanthropic endeavours include supporting underprivileged Indians through collaborations with organisations such as the Gulbarga Welfare Society and MESCO.

Since January 2021, he has also served as Vice President of the Saudi-Indian Healthcare Forum, an initiative under the Embassy of India in Riyadh.

Fluent in Arabic and deeply connected to Saudi culture, Dr. Khursheed has been a vital link between India and Saudi Arabia, enhancing bilateral relations in the domains of healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship. His recognition with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award underscores his lifelong dedication to the Indian community abroad and his role in elevating India’s global stature.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / January 12th, 2025

Prof Farah Ghaus Bags Indian Golden Personalities Award

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Prof Farah Ghaus, Department of Anatomy, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University with the Best Indian Golden Personalities Award, 2025

Aligarh:

Prof Farah Ghaus, Department of Anatomy, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University has been honoured with the Best Indian Golden Personalities Award, 2025 by the Friendship Forum of India, New Delhi.

Prof Ghaus has been chosen for the award for her commitment to advancing educational excellence in India and empowerment through education, and for her relentless pursuit of innovation, creativity and quality of work on the educational landscape.

The award recognises her pivotal role in shaping the future of thousands of students through her deep commitment to educational reforms, mentorship, and for fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by Radiance News Bureau / January 12th, 2025

Five From Karnataka Among ‘100 Indian Muslim Achievers’ Recognized by Muslim Mirror

KARNATAKA / NEW DELHI :

Muslim Mirror’s list of 100 Indian Muslim achievers features four notable personalities from Karnataka, recognized for their contributions to education, business, journalism, and community development.

Bidar’s Abdul Qadeer – Educator and Visionary Leader
Abdul Qadeer, a renowned educationist and founder of the Shaheen Group of Institutions in Bidar, has dedicated his life to empowering marginalized communities through education.

Under his leadership, Shaheen Institutions have grown into a network providing quality education, emphasizing academic excellence and holistic development. His commitment to integrating modern and traditional education has enabled numerous students to excel in competitive examinations and achieve higher educational aspirations.

Mangaluru’s Dr. Abdullah Kunhi – Entrepreneur and Educationist
Dr. Yenepoya Abdullah Kunhi, the founder of Yenepoya University in Mangalore, has transformed education and healthcare in Karnataka.

Known for his vision and humanitarian spirit, Dr. Kunhi established Yenepoya University as a multidisciplinary institution offering innovative programs across various fields.

He also expanded healthcare access through advanced medical facilities and initiated programs to uplift marginalized communities, including scholarships and community health initiatives.

Azim Hashim Premji – Business Tycoon and Philanthropist
Azim Premji, former chairman of Wipro Limited, revolutionized India’s IT industry and emerged as one of the country’s most influential business leaders.

A recipient of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Premji is also one of the world’s leading philanthropists. Through the Azim Premji Foundation, he has donated over $21 billion, primarily to improve education and healthcare in India, leaving an indelible mark on society.

Mohammed Zubair – Journalist and Fact-Checker
Mohammed Zubair, co-founder of the fact-checking website Alt News, is a pivotal figure in combating misinformation in India.

Transitioning from an engineering background to journalism, Zubair has exposed numerous instances of fake news and disinformation, fostering accountability and promoting responsible journalism. Despite facing harassment and legal challenges, his dedication to truth and transparency remains unwavering.

Irfan Razack – Real Estate Mogul and Community Advocate
Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, is one of India’s leading real estate entrepreneurs.


Based in Bengaluru, he has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s real estate landscape, making Prestige Group one of the most prominent property developers in the country.

Razack is also the co-founder of Inventure Academy in Bengaluru and has held esteemed positions, including Honorary Secretary of the Al-Ameen Educational Society and Chairman of CREDAI.

His community contributions through the Kutchi Memon Jamat and philanthropic initiatives have earned him numerous awards, including the Real Estate Excellence Award (2008) and Entrepreneur Extraordinaire Award (2010).

According to the 2024 Forbes list of India’s 100 richest tycoons, Irfan Razack and his siblings are ranked 49th, with a net worth of $6 billion.

These five distinguished individuals from Karnataka exemplify excellence, resilience, and a commitment to societal progress, earning them well-deserved recognition on this prestigious list.

source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Education / by The Hindustan Gazette / January 06th, 2024

Scholar, Writer Prof. Muzaffar Assadi passes away at 63

Shirva, UDUPI District / Mysuru / KARNATAKA :

Prof. Muzaffar Assadi

Bengaluru:

Senior scholar, thinker, and writer, Prof. Muzaffar Hussain Assadi, who served as the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Political Science Department at Mysore University, passed away late Friday night at a private hospital in Bengaluru. He was 63 years old.

Prof. Muzaffar Assadi conducted extensive studies on the lives and lifestyles of tribal communities.

He served as the chairperson of a committee appointed to address the displacement of tribal populations. His research and contributions spanned areas such as agricultural studies, globalization, Gandhian philosophy, political sociology, democratic theories, social movements, comparative governance, Indian politics, human rights, and global political theories, earning him significant recognition.

Hailing from Shirva in Udupi district, Dr. Muzaffar Assadi completed his postgraduate degree from Mangalore University, followed by an M.Phil. and Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.

He later pursued a Rockefeller Fellowship and Post-Doctoral studies at the University of Chicago.

He authored 11 books during his illustrious career.

As the chairperson of the High Court Committee on Tribal Displacement, he submitted an impactful report.

His notable works include Multifaceted Feminist Narratives and Movements in Karnataka, Asmita, among others.

Previously, he served as the Special Officer of the newly established Raichur University.

Prof. Assadi received numerous honors, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / January 04th, 2025

Mangaluru: Kanachur Group of Institutions meet to observe Founder’s Day

Mangaluru (Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru : 

A distinct day in the entire calendar year of Kanachur Group of Institutions, where the integral force of Kanachur Family namely students, staff, faculty, principals and trustees meet as a single unit; to remember and express their gratitude to their leader, chief and founder – Haji U K Monu was recently observed.

Kanachur Islamic Education Trust ®, under its flagship honors the following institutions:
1. Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences
2. Kanachur College of Nursing Sciences
3. Kanachur College of Physiotherapy
4. Kanachur Institute of Paramedical Sciences
5. Kanachur Institute of Management & Science
6. Kanachur PU College for Women
7. Kanachur Public School
8. Kanachur Primary School
9. Kanachur Pre-Primary School

The momentous day started with a Vanamahotsava programme, where the chief guest Prof Dr P Subramanya Yadapadithaya – vice chancellor of Mangalore University planted a teak sapling in the Kanachur Health Education Campus. Prof Yadapadithaya was then welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honor, by the student scouts and guides who did a brilliant job.

A prayer song by the students of Kanachur Public School and a Quranic citation gave this amazing day a head start. Then followed a cultural extravaganza where in the student units of all constituent colleges under the trust displayed excellence and sheer talent, at the Medical College auditorium, Kanachur Academic Block.

Abdul Rahiman, director – Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences warmly welcomed the entire Kanachur fraternity on and off the dais. He travelled down memory lane to when the trust was formed and he was in his late teens; the dreams that his father carried to offer education to the underprivileged and left no stone unturned to make this 70 acre campus transform into a temple of learning in rural India.

With these few words he welcomed the founder and chairman of the trust. Zohara Monu, trustee – Kanachur Islamic Education Trust; Prof Dr P Subramanya Yadapadithaya – VC, Mangalore University; Prof Dr M Abdul Rahiman, chairman, Advisory Board – Kanachur Academy of General Education and former VC – Kannur and Calicut Universities; Dr H S Virupaksha, dean – Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences; Dr Sreesha Khandige, associate dean – Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences; Dr Deviprasad Shetty, medical superintendent – Kanachur Hospital & Research Centre; Dr Rohan Monis, chief administrative officer – Kanachur Hospital & Research Centre; Dr Vivian D’Souza, principal – Kanachur Institute of Paramedical Sciences; Suhail Khan, principal – Kanachur College of Physiotherapy; Prof Renilda Shanti Lobo, principal – Kanachur College of Nursing Sciences; Prof Iqbal, principal – Kanachur Institute of Management & Science; Hemalatha, principal – Kanachur PU College for Women; Vinitha Mathias, principal – Kanachur Public School; Anandi, principal – Kanachur Primary School; Linnet, principal – Kanachur Pre-Primary and Dr Shahnawaz Manipady, HOD – Forensic Medicine were on the dais.

Prof Dr P Subramanya Yadapadithaya was respectfully felicitated by Haji U K Monu. In his chief guest addressal, he hailed the efforts of Kanachur U K Monu. He stressed that in today’s times, just a degree does not suffice. One needs KASH – Knowledge – to be ahead of the race, Attitude – so that all around are amicable, Skills – a mixed skillset and Habits – one that is infectious and aiming for excellence. Today’s era is evidence based and research informed and it is just going to get tougher.

Prof Dr M Abdul Rahiman was the guest of honor for this pompous occasion. He stressed on the fact that U K Monu always stressed on quality and that they as leaders and faculty of Kanachur should support him.

Haji U K Monu and his able life companion Zohara Monu were felicitated by Prof Dr Abdul Rahiman and Shanti Lobo. Later, all the heads of all the constituent institutions paid their floral tributes to them and wished them on the occasion of Founder’s Day. In his presidential address, Haji U K Monu stressed that this day is a special day with all his faculty and students and that he appreciates every hard working person in the institute. He said there is no replacement for hard work and that is the way it should be.

The vote of thanks was given by Dr H S Virupaksha. The event ended with the National Anthem.

Dr Annet, assistant professor – Dept of Microbiology was the emcee.

All the principals, faculty, staff and students were present at the Medical College auditorium. It was a day filled with pride and was very inspiring indeed.

Kanachur Islamic Education Trust ® and their group of institutions are very proactive in helping to realise the dream of the needy students in rural India. This is an active nation building process and education of young minds and their hearts is their mainstay.

In the words of Nelson Mandela ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which can be used to change the world’ which the trustees stand by.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Campusbeat> Mangaluru / by Media Release / July 18th, 2018

Prof Nizamuddin Khan Bags Bhoogol Vachaspati Award

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Prof. Nizamuddin Khan receives the prestigious Bhoogol Vachaspati Award at Osmania University Hyderabad

Agra :

Prof. Nizamuddin Khan, former Chairman, Department of Geography, Aligarh Muslim University has been honoured with the prestigious Bhoogol Vachaspati Award, conferred on him by the National Association of Geographers, India (NAGI) at the inaugural function of Indian Geography Congress organised by the Department of Geography, Osmania University, Hyderabad.

The award recognises Prof Khan’s seminal contributions and services in promoting the cause of Geography in India.

Prof. Khan has had an illustrious teaching career spanning over thirty years with a special thrust on agricultural geography, livestock and rural marketing, livelihood generation, poverty reduction, sustainable development in rural regions and environmental studies.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Awards> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / January 01st, 2025

Tonk’s Ustad Zafar Raza Khan and Student Shahjahan Shine in National Calligraphy Competition

Tonk, RAJASTHAN :

Tonk:

Tonk has been renowned for its calligraphy, a centuries-old art form that has earned the nawabi city an esteemed reputation on the international stage. This rich cultural heritage continues to thrive through the dedication of talented artists.

Recently, a national-level calligraphy competition was held in Aurangabad, attracting participants from across India, including Telangana, Maharashtra, Kashmir, and Rajasthan. Ustad Zafar Raza Khan and his student Shahjahan, both from Tonk’s Markaz-Talimul-Khutut institute, represented their city at the Second All-India Quranic Calligraphy Competition. The event was organised in collaboration with Maulana Azad College of Arts, Science, and Commerce (Aurangabad) and the Iran Culture House, Mumbai and New Delhi.

Participants were initially shortlisted based on online submissions of their work. Those selected were invited to the competition held on December 27. Among the contenders, Tonk’s calligraphers distinguished themselves, securing the top two honours and bringing glory to their city.

Ustad Zafar Raza Khan received high praise for his exceptional skill in the Nasta’liq script. While judges unanimously considered his work the finest, he was awarded the second prize due to international competition rules. These rules stipulate that if only one individual meeting the standard for first place remains in the competition, the top prize is withheld, and the second prize is awarded instead.

Shahjahan, another participant from Tonk, triumphed in the Naskh Arabic (Osmani Naskh) script category, winning first prize. Their achievements underscore the exceptional training provided at Markaz-Talimul-Khutut, a new institute established in Tonk on January 1, 2024.

The institute has rapidly gained prominence, thanks to its internationally acclaimed instructors, Ustad Zafar Raza Khan and Ustad Khurshid Alam. Both are celebrated as among the finest calligraphy masters globally. Their dedication has elevated the institute and inspired a new generation of artists to master this ancient art form.

The institute’s officials attribute their success to the hard work of their students and faculty, pledging continued efforts to preserve and promote the art of calligraphy. This achievement is a source of pride not only for Tonk but for Rajasthan and the entire nation.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Raheem Khan, Radiance News Bureau / January 01st, 2025

17-Year-Old Saleha Is Shattering Menstrual Taboos in Mumbai

Govandi-Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

An award winning activist and trainer, Saleha is an inspiration to many !

Period. Just the word alone has the power to make people uncomfortable, but why?

Troubled by the ubiquity of this discomfort, young Saleha decided to take it upon herself to break the stigma and lead the change in her slum in Mumbai city. An inspiring change-maker at 15, the story of Saleha is the clarion call for society at large to start talking about menstruation. It is indeed high time to not just talk but also celebrate these celebrate small steps towards change.

It is shocking that less than half of India’s 355 million menstruating women use sanitary napkins (SNs). These are not mere statistics, but a reality we can no longer ignore. For millions of women in India, the struggle begins with the lack of basic awareness about menstruation and therefore not following the right menstrual health and hygiene practices.

Saleha lives in the Govandi slums, located close to Mumbai’s biggest dump yard, with one of the lowest human development indices of the city. Her brave efforts despite the odds she faces every day may not end the problem that Govandi and even India faces at large but she is surely a part of the solution!

How did it all begin?

Saleha’s journey was not an easy one. Initially, she had minimal support from her family. After marrying off her elder sister, the family was faced with financial difficulties. Then as they faced the choice of sending either Saleha or her brother to school, they did what many families do. She was in class 8th  then.

Saleha’s family mindset was only able to change with her extraordinary perseverance coupled with months of consistent effort put forward by Save the Children’s team. Today, Saleha is in class 11th and an active member of Save the Children children’s group in her area.

She was 12 when she first attended a menstruation session in her school.

She recalls: “We were taken to a separate class for the session and boys were not a part of it. I think even if boys don’t menstruate, they too should be educated about it,” says Saleha.

The fact that menstruation is one hush-hush topic that is usually avoided by our parents, teachers and the community.

As an active member of the children’s group, Saleha stood at the forefront of a unique child-led campaign called WASH4LIFE. In this campaign she strongly advocated water and sanitation issues in her community. Saleha has conducted more than 250 sessions on menstrual hygiene and other issues related to water and sanitation-issues over the last three years. She has been able to influence more than 2,500 adolescent girls who have adopted healthy menstrual hygiene practices. She does it through innovative (and fun) methods of messaging such as street plays, photo exhibitions and talk shows – reaching out to over 10,000 community members.

When Saleha first joined the group, she was very fascinated by the program, as it provided an opportunity for her and other children to understand the changes in their body at the time of puberty – something that was not discussed elsewhere. The girls also learned how to use sanitary napkins. She aspired to and then became a trainer very quickly thereafter.

“Twice or thrice a month we conduct sessions for groups of 30 girls. We conduct these sessions after school hours, with each session lasting three to four hours. I made many friends here and also gained  confidence.,” she beams proudly.

Saleha remembers, “My father did not speak to me for days when I went against his wishes and conducted training sessions. My mother has only now begun to understand what I stand for. It was tough convincing her, but now she acknowledges the change this has brought about in all our lives.”

Today she has the support from her family, peers, and community.

Her exceptional contribution in various community welfare activities got her the most prestigious award – Savitribai Phule Award. She was also selected as an Ashoka Youth Venturer and will be mentored in leadership skills for one year. More recently she was nominated for the International Peace Prize which she hopes will be a stepping stone for her future endeavours!

Global Citizen India campaigns for better access to menstrual health and hygeine awareness for young girls and women in India. Take action here.

Save the Children, India aims to catalyse a movement for and with children for achieving the greatest improvement in the child rights indicators related to survival, education, development and participation aligning with national and global commitments to tackle exclusion and inequalities.

source: http://www.globalcitizen.org / Global Citizen / Home> Partner> Demand Equity / from Save The Children / April 12th, 2018