Every person has a one-of-a-kind story, full of personal victories, challenges, and moments of strength. By connecting directly with those we aim to help, we not only gain a deeper understanding of their journeys but also build trust and empathy, which are vital for our future initiatives.
Our goal is to create a secure and encouraging space where beneficiaries and other stakeholders can openly share their experiences, knowing that their voices are respected and their stories are incredibly meaningful. It is through these genuine narratives that we shape our work, ensuring that we provide the support and opportunities that truly make a difference in their lives.
The interview module of Soul and Substance has been carefully designed to foster an environment of trust, respect, and empathy, ensuring that beneficiaries feel comfortable sharing their stories and perspectives. It aims to create a safe space where individuals can express their thoughts, emotions, and aspirations freely, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the impact of Smile Foundation’s social development programmes on their lives.
Here is the story of a carefree and passionate Virat* (12 years old) trained in our Mission Education (ME) programme, center located at Shri Ram J.J.Colony, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi in his own words.
So, Virat, I saw you getting your Mathematics copy corrected by the teacher. You looked very happy. Do you like Maths?
Yeah, I really like Maths! It’s one of my favorite subjects. I love doing Fractions and Decimals. When I have doubts or questions, my teachers at the education center are always there to help me out.
Sometimes I do not understand concepts in school so I ask my teachers at the centre here to help me out and they explain the concepts in a way that’s easy for me to understand. They also give me extra practice problems to strengthen my skills. It feels great when I get my Maths copy corrected because it means I’m making progress and improving.
That’s great. So how long have you been studying at this education centre? Has this education center helped you with other subjects also?
I have been coming here for the past 5 years. Oh yes, I remember scoring very fewer marks in English and Social Science in school but then since I started coming here, my grades have improved for the better. Even my friends at school pointed out that I have gotten better in my studies.
In the centre, our teachers use various teaching methods, such as interactive discussions, group activities, and games, to make learning enjoyable and effective. Thanks to the education center, I feel more confident and capable in all my subjects.
What are your goals and aspirations for the future? Have you decided what you want to become when you grow up?
Yeah, I have a clear goal for my future! I really want to become an army boy and serve my nation. I’ve watched so many movies about soldiers and army officers, and I’m amazed by how they protect and serve our country.
It inspired me a lot! I know it’s not an easy path, but I’m ready to study and work as hard as it takes to join the Indian army. I want to make my family and my country proud. It’s something I’m really passionate about, and I’ll do whatever it takes to become a responsible and dedicated soldier.
That is very impressive for someone your age. What is your family like? Do you have siblings?
Well, my family is really important to me. I have two elder sisters and one younger brother. They’re all very supportive of me in my education, and I’m grateful for that. My mother is a cook at my school only and she also helps me with my homework, especially since she has completed her 10th grade. She’s always there for me when I need some extra guidance.
My father works in an Airport cargo loading company, so he doesn’t have much time at home, but whenever he’s around, he asks me about my day at school and the education center. It feels nice to share my experiences with him. I want to set a good example for my younger brother, and that’s why I want to work hard to achieve my dream of joining the army.
So you and your mother go to the same school? How is it there? Do your friends like the food your mother cooks?
Haha, Yes my mother and I go to the same school. She is one of the head cooks at my school and my mother is an amazing cook. My friends absolutely love the food she makes. They always ask me to bring certain veggies or dishes in my tiffin. One of their favorites is Methi Parantha, and they can’t get enough of her Paneer dishes. It feels really good when people praise my mother’s cooking. I feel lucky to have such tasty and delicious meals every day.
It was great talking to you Virat, is there anything that you would like to tell us?
Yes, I forgot to tell you about another dream that I have. I really want to buy a big house for my family one day. Right now, our house feels a little small because we are six members in total. I want to provide more space and comfort for everyone. It would be amazing to see my family happy and comfortable in a spacious home. I know it’s a big goal, but I believe that with hard work and determination, I can make it happen.
Virat dreams big and he dreams fine. He realizes that dreams need hard work, dedication and an insane amount of belief in oneself to get there. Our Mission Education programme is envisaged with the core belief that every child deserves quality education so that they can build a reasonably solid life for themselves.
At present, Smile Foundation’s Mission Education programme is directly providing education to over 100,000 children in 23 states of India through 261 projects. You too can change the lives of children by providing them with a quality education by making a small donation here.
*Name changed due to confidentiality purposes
