By Tabita Fernandes | Project Leader
Vidya* grew up in a community where girls were often pushed to the backseat from birth. Education was allowed, but not if it delayed marriage. In 10th grade, when her marriage was being planned, Vidya asked for time. To stay in school, to learn, and to choose for herself. With early support from CRY’s project team, her parents called off the marriage and encouraged her to continue her studies.
The CRY team supported her with books, tuition, and guidance to shape her own path. Vidya did not look back. She topped her school in both 10th and 12th grade, cleared the teaching entrance exam, and earned admission to a teaching certificate course.
Beyond the classroom, she found the courage to lead. When girls’ football was introduced by CRY’s project team, wearing a jersey in public was not easy in her conservative community. Vidya wore it anyway and led her team to victories at the village, panchayat, and district levels.
Today, Vidya leads CRY’s Adolescent Girls’ Collective. For years now, no child marriages have taken place in her community.
When we give girls like Vidya the chance to stay in school, we give them the courage, and confidence to choose their own future. Support CRY UK to help more girls have their time in school.
*Name changed to protect child’s identity
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