Empower girls like Priti in slums in Pune, India

Name of Beneficiary:  Shweta Navnaath Salve

Age: 17 years

Education: 11^th STD

I, Shweta Navnath Salve, have sat the S.S.C. examination [an examination for government jobs]. Such a thing marks a great turnaround in my life, which has only been possible due to the work of the project. 

After joining the classes there has been a radical change in my mind, in my personality, in my nature and my ability to think about things.

I have been living in Shantinagar since my childhood. It is clearly a 'slum', and in my experience, the surroundings and atmosphere around us clearly influence the way we think.

After I completed my 10th standard examination, I had to do something with myself in the holidays. I therefore joined the classes to learn spoken English, and basic computer skills. 

Before, I used to think that teachers were only good for teaching their subject. But here I see that they serve as good examples, and that I can change myself for the better, as well as learn whatever I am being taught. I have learned so much here. So much of what I've learned is important for my personal development. My secondary school education is over now, and I will go to college and probably try and find some work as well. But before I did not know anything about how adanced the world is before, when all I know was the four walls of my house and my school. But I learnt about myself in these life skills classes. The teacher and other girls have impressed my with their softness, their kindness. Not only this, but they have provided a useful practical service. Now I can look critically at this society and my position. I hope to live in a wiser way than this, and to have a job also.

I am very grateful to the project staff.