I remember that day when I held Kusum & Namita for the first time in my arms. They were with their parents looking for a good school for their children. It’s been twenty years since, but the memory is as fresh as it was yesterday. I met them both last week and I felt proud like a mother, seeing them doing well in their lives.

One of our initiatives, Ankur, started off in the year 2004 with the focus of supporting children for their mental, physical, and emotional well-being until they are job ready. From two children, it has grown into a happy residential place for 250 children now.

From the beginning, I was always drawn towards focusing my efforts to ensure the well-being of children – esp. from underserved sections of society. Through Ankur, we were able to bring a small change into the lives of children from Karnataka.

I see myself not just as a mother of Shruti and Shreyas, but also to all those children who are part of SFPI, especially Ankur. My heart swells with pride when I see them excelling at studies, following their passion, and supporting each other at the hostel. Nothing can bring me more peace than spending time with these children and listening to their stories about their aspirations and dreams in life! Through their dreams, I relive my childhood – things that I couldn’t do back then.  I have made it my mission to ensure that dearth of resources will not come into the way of translating their dreams into reality. They all call me ‘Kumari Mummy’ and trust me, that’s the biggest achievement in life.

Children have great potential, and all they need are the right resources and support. With initiatives like Vidyadhan and Ankur, SFPI is doing its bit to ensure their future is bright and safe.