By Anjali Hegde | Executive Director
Udayan Shalini Fellowship program (USF) of Udayan Care is a unique academic excellence and personality development program for deserving and talented girls from weak socio/economic backgrounds aiming to turn them into empowered and dignified women or Shalinis. It is unique because it goes beyond being a usual scholarship program by not only supporting higher education but also providing regular mentoring and leadership development and inculcating a sense of social responsibility in them. Udayan Care initiated the Udayan Shalini Fellowships (USF) program in 2002 in Delhi, initially supporting 72 girls. Since its inception, USF has provided assistance to over 15,000 girl beneficiaries from financially constrained backgrounds. Presently, USF operates in 36 chapters across 14 states in India, significantly expanding its reach and impact.
In the past three months, the Shalinis actively engaged in both in/person and virtual sessions and events organized by USF, fostering academic and extracurricular growth. Face-to-face mentor interactions and wor kshop participation have created a sense of togetherness among Shalinis. The program consistently supports Shalinis and their families, guiding them in skill development and preparation for professional life. These Workshops covered various topics like Positive Language, Career Awareness, and Communication, equipping Shalinis to pass on their knowledge, etc. Additionally, practical exposure to the corporate world was offered through visits to various companies and institutions. New mentors, including dedicated alumnae, are joining the program, further enhancing the mentoring process. Donors and partners have played a crucial role in supporting the Shalinis, and their continued assistance is vital for advancing girls' education and expanding outreach.
Workshop with Shalinis
Employability Workshops
Date Batch Chapter No. of Shalinis Attended Topics
16/06/2024 22 North Delhi 41 Positive Language
16/06/2024 20 North Delhi 45 CVPreparation
27/06/2024 21 North Delhi 41 Verbal Communication
21/07/2024 21 North Delhi 44 Email Writing
21/07/2024 20 North Delhi 35 Upskilling your CV using the Internet
The employability workshops held in the North Delhi chapter have been transformative for the Shalinis, helping them grow both personally and professionally. Workshops on CV preparation and verbal communication provided hands-on guidance to enhance their professional profiles and communication abilities. The session on positive language helped them foster more constructive interactions, and learning to align passion with career goals through the inspiring stories of mentors like Mansi motivated them to pursue careers that truly resonate with them. These workshops have not only boosted their confidence but also empowered them to face future challenges head-on, fully prepared for both academic and professional success.
Shalini Feedback:
I attended a session on positive communication conducted by Mr. Deepak sir from Genpact. The session was highly insightful and interactive, and I learned valuable strategies for fostering positive interactions. It left a lasting impression on me.
- Bhoomika, Batch 22
Small Group Workshops
Date Batch Chapter Attendance Topics
05/07/2024 22, 21 North Delhi 97 Human Trafficking
23/07/2024 20, 19 North Delhi 68 Emotional Intelligence
16/07/2024 22 North Delhi 42 Mastering the skill of communication
The small group workshops in the North Delhi chapter have had a profound impact on the Shalinis, nurturing their personal growth and equipping them with essential life skills. A session on human trafficking led by Prashasti raised awareness about a critical issue, encouraging them to take an active stand. Emotional intelligence, facilitated by Gaurav, focused on self-awareness and interpersonal skills, while the session on mastering communication skills gave them tools to express themselves confidently. These workshops have contributed to the Shalinis' journey of self-discovery and growth, empowering them to face their futures with confidence and compassion.
Shalini Feedback:
Today's session helped me to know about my very own self, to know my very own potential.
I got to know I haven't found my potential yet. As I always need validation to do something. I have so many self-doubts about myself that make my confidence low. By today's session, I got to I have yet to discover my potential. And the end of the session was so nice it felt like something heavy lifted off my shoulders. I felt more composed as I concentrated. It was a really nice session and I'm looking forward to more sessions of Ekagra to know about myself a bit more and get more self-confident.
- Anamika, Batch 22 (Name Changed)
Quarterly Workshops
Date Batch Chapter Attendance Topics
12/05/2024 19, 20, 22 North Delhi 162 Introduction to Mass Communications by Puppet Pictures
The quarterly workshops for the North Delhi chapter provided Shalinis with enriching learning experiences, spanning both professional and personal development. On 12th May 2024, a session on Mass Communication, led by Ms. Deepti Srivastava from Puppet Pictures College of Mass Communication, introduced the girls to various media-related courses such as Photography, Graphic Design, and Podcasting. With hands-on activities focused on scripting, effective speaking, and confidence building, the Shalinis gained valuable insights into the world of media. The workshop not only expanded the Shalinis' knowledge but also equipped them with practical skills for both their personal and professional lives.
Shalini Feedback:
The team, including students, teachers, and notable figures like Rahul Chakraborty and Nitish Srivastava, provided guidance on admissions. They introduced courses like BA Mass Communication, Photography and Graphic Design, Radio Jockey, and Podcasting. The team engaged the Shalinis in activities to build essential media skills such as scripting, speaking effectively, expressing themselves, building confidence, and action-reaction dynamics. The Shalinis enjoyed the session and learned a lot about media and communication.
- Shristi, Batch 22 (Name Changed)
Mentor-Mentee Sessions
Over the period of three months, we conducted 98 mentor-mentee sessions in the North Delhi chapter, engaging 144 mentees and 36 dedicated mentors. These sessions gave Shalinis a crucial platform to receive personalized guidance, build confidence, and develop both personal and professional skills. Mentors actively supported the mentees, offering valuable insights and helping them navigate challenges. Through regular interactions, we fostered growth, resilience, and a strong sense of direction, empowering the Shalinis for future opportunities and success.
Paying it Forward
Date Batch Chapter Attendance Topics
21/05/2024 22 North Delhi 30 Cleanliness Drive
07/07/2024 21 North Delhi 12 Health Awareness through Yoga
Over the past three months, the Shalinis from the North Delhi chapter have actively contributed to society through various impactful initiatives. In May, 30 students from Batch 22 participated in a weed-plucking activity at a local park, where they worked together to clear unwanted weeds and improve the environment. The hands-on experience taught them the value of maintaining green spaces and showcased the power of teamwork. In July, the Shalinis engaged in a yoga camp at Decathlon, promoting physical and mental well-being while raising awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Through these activities, the Shalinis not only gave back to the community but also deepened their understanding of fitness, mindfulness, and environmental stewardship.
Shalini Feedback:
Participating in the early morning "Kharpatwar" activity during our residential camp was a rewarding experience for me. It was challenging but fulfilling to contribute to cleaning up the park and learning about the importance of maintaining green spaces. Working together with my peers gave me a sense of accomplishment, knowing that our efforts had a positive impact on the community.
- Chesta, Batch 22 (Name Changed)
Additional Activities
Date Batch Chapter Attendance Topics
07/04/2024 All Alumnae North Delhi 80 13th Alumnae Meet
21/05/2024-23/04/2024 22 North Delhi 30 Residential Camp
21/06/2024 21 North Delhi 11 Exposure visit at Deloitte
05/06/2024 19 North Deli 9 Desktop Distribution
11/08/2024 23 North Delhi 230 Written Exam
01/09/2024 23 North Delhi 182 Interview process
Over the past three months, the North Delhi chapter of the Udayan Shalini Fellowship organized a variety of impactful activities, fostering growth and engagement among Shalinis. The 13th Alumnae Meet in April saw 80 alumnae come together with esteemed guests, while the two-day residential camp in May offered workshops on personal development, career skills, and recreational activities, blending education with fun. In June 24 Shalinis gained corporate exposure during a Deloitte visit, learning communication skills and innovation, and nine desktops were distributed to Batch 19 students pursuing higher studies, supported by Genpact. Additionally, the chapter conducted a written exam in August, with 230 students participating, and followed up with interviews in September, selecting 128 students for home visits, furthering the chapter's dedication to educational and professional development for the Shalinis.
Alumna Feedback:
The 13th Alumnae Meet held at Mahavir Senior Model School, was filled with enthusiasm and warmth as we welcomed 80 fellow alumnae, making the occasion even more vibrant. Esteemed guests shared their invaluable wisdom and experiences with us. The event was further enriched by captivating performances from our talented Shalinis, which added to the spirit and charm of the celebration.
- Sakshi, Batch 17(Name Changed)
Success Story
Name of the Shalini: Dipti Sopariya (NAme Changed)
Batch: 14
Dipti Sopariya is currently working as a Credit Manager at ICICI Bank, having recently completed her Chartered Accountancy (CA) qualification in May 2023. This achievement has provided her with financial stability and a fulfilling career, marking a significant milestone in her journey.
Dipti became a part of the Udayan Shalini Fellowship (USF) in November 2016. Throughout her fellowship, she actively participated in workshops and mentorship sessions that played a vital role in shaping her personality and career. After completing the fellowship, Dipti took on the role of a mentor herself, supporting and guiding younger Shalinis on their educational and personal journeys.
USF provided Dipti with not only financial assistance but also crucial emotional and social support. The regular workshops organized by USF helped her develop essential skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving. The program also connected her with mentors like Kiran Mam, Faheem Bhaiya, and Garima Jain, who continually motivated and encouraged her to strive for excellence. Her mentor, Garima Jain, played a pivotal role in guiding her through challenges and areas for improvement, helping her stay focused on her goal of becoming a CA.
The fellowship's emphasis on building self-confidence and fostering a sense of social responsibility had a lasting impact on Dipti, empowering her to succeed in her career and share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Dipti hails from a family of five, including her father, who works in a private job, her mother, a homemaker, and her two elder sisters. Her sisters, who have also achieved significant academic success—one with an MBA and the other as a CA—served as role models for her growing up. Despite financial constraints, her family’s unwavering support allowed Dipti to pursue her dreams and accomplish her goals.
Dipti Sopariya’s journey from a determined student to a successful Chartered Accountant is a testament to her perseverance and hard work. The Udayan Shalini Fellowship played a pivotal role in her growth by providing financial, emotional, and social support at critical moments in her life. Now financially stable and professionally fulfilled, Dipti continues to give back to the fellowship as a mentor, ensuring that the next generation of Shalinis benefits from the same support and guidance that helped her achieve her dreams.
Links:
Project reports on GlobalGiving are posted directly to globalgiving.org by Project Leaders as they are completed, generally every 3-4 months. To protect the integrity of these documents, GlobalGiving does not alter them; therefore you may find some language or formatting issues.
If you donate to this project or have donated to this project, you can receive an email when this project posts a report. You can also subscribe for reports without donating.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
