Empower disadvantaged girls in Indian slums

Meenakshi grew up in the village of Gujranwala, Rajasthan, where strict gender norms meant girls were expected to marry early instead of pursuing education or careers. Life became even harder when she lost her father while in 11th grade. With her family’s financial struggles mounting, relatives pressured her to leave school and get married, threatening to derail her dreams.

But everything changed when a classmate told her about OSCAR Foundation’s Young Leader Programme. Meenakshi decided to join the 5-day young leader training. It wasn’t just about football, it was about learning how to teach life skills, inspire children and create change in her community. In OSCAR’s supportive environment, she found a space to grow, learn and believe in herself.

Even with challenges all around her, Meenakshi stayed determined. She kept learning, improving her communication skills and building her confidence. Today, she leads football and life skills sessions for children in her village, teaching them values like teamwork, resilience and respect.

“Meenakshi’s journey with OSCAR Foundation has transformed her into a fearless leader who defies odds, empowers her family, and inspires an entire village to believe in the power of girls” - Sunita (Meenakshi’s Mother)

More than just a coach, Meenakshi is now a role model, a guide and proof that with the right support, young women can rise above expectations and lead change. She is building a better future, not just for herself, but for every child she inspires.

Misbah grew up in an underserved community in Mumbai, where many girls face limited access to education and deep-rooted taboos around menstrual health. Like countless adolescents in similar settings, she was surrounded by barriers that often prevent girls from speaking openly, staying in school or stepping into leadership roles. Her journey with OSCAR Foundation began through the Life Skills through Football programme, where she found not only a space to play, but a platform to grow.

Over the past three years, Misbah has become a dedicated Young Leader under OSCAR’s Kick Like a Girl initiative, facilitating football sessions, engaging communities and supporting adolescent girls to build confidence and life skills.

As part of OSCAR’s Learning Community Programme, Misbah played a key role in addressing Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH). With guidance and local permissions, she and her peers successfully supported the installation of two sanitary pad incinerators in public toilets, promoting safe disposal and encouraging open conversations around menstrual health.

Over an 18-month project, Misbah mentored 15 adolescent girls, creating safe spaces for dialogue, distributing cotton pads and leading awareness sessions that helped girls speak openly about menstruation. She also extended these efforts to her college and neighbourhood, engaging parents, teachers and students to challenge long-standing stigma.

Recognised with an award for her leadership, Misbah stands as a role model for girls in her community, proving that with the right support, girls don’t just participate, they lead change.