Inspiring minds: Saroja

WFLM has supported Saroja (now 17) through education at the APN school. In April 2018 she took her 10th grade exams, and left school as that school does not offer any higher classes.

Committed to continuing her education, Saroja joined the free government school in Harriya (11th grade) in July 2018.

Also in July 2018 Saroja expressed great interest in the newly set-up sewing class and has been attending regularly. With her enthusiasm her skills have shown outstanding progress in that she can now make herself dresses, as well as some garments for her family. 

There is also a sign of her business acumen...

During her review in January 2019, we discussed her thoughts and wishes for the future and she expressed she would like; to be competent in tailoring, make clothing for her family and possibility of taking on paid alteration work from others. 

In fact, using her initiative she already does some simple repairs and alteration work for a couple of people in the village, for a few Rupees at a time. On asking her how WFLM could help her, she said a sewing machine of her own would be invaluable in her quest (the estimated costs would be £60-£70). 

Considering she is intelligent and determined, I believe she could be successful and I promised I would discuss it with her sponsor and let her know by the next visit. 

Given her initiative if her skills and ideas are nurtured, in time it could provide her with a livelihood.

Saroja’s father is a carpenter doing odd jobs in and around the village. He provides for Saroja and four other younger daughters and has one older son: Sanjay. Sanjay is 18 and helps the family income by labouring in the fields when he can get work. He has two daughters both of which are supported through education by WFLM at the APN School.