Auto Driver's Inspiration Leads to Education Revolution: 68-Year-Old Empowers 400 Underprivileged Children

Seema Seth's NGO, Nayi Disha, Provides Path to Schooling for Gurugram's Marginalized Youth

Gurugram, India - In the heart of Gurugram lies a story of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of education. Seema Seth, a seasoned HR professional turned social entrepreneur, has spearheaded a remarkable initiative that is changing the lives of underprivileged children in the region. Nayi Disha, the NGO she founded, has become a beacon of hope for hundreds of children who once faced uncertain futures.

Seema's journey towards establishing Nayi Disha began with a simple conversation with an auto driver named Mahendra. Reflecting on her corporate career, Seema recalls feeling unfulfilled and yearning for a deeper sense of purpose. It was during her daily commute to volunteer at a local government school that Mahendra, her regular auto driver, sparked a conversation that would change everything.

"Do you charge to teach the students here?" Mahendra inquired one day.

"No, I do it for free," Seema replied.

Mahendra then shared his observations of the children in his community, the Harijan Colony, where many underprivileged children roamed the streets while their parents worked long hours as maids, drivers, or grocers. He expressed a heartfelt plea: "Ma'am, aap waha school khol do" ("Ma'am, open a school there").

Seema was deeply moved by Mahendra's words and promised to open a school if he could find a suitable space. True to his word, Mahendra swiftly secured an old warehouse in the heart of the Harijan Colony, and on 19th March 2014, Nayi Disha was born.

What started with 35 children in a humble warehouse has since blossomed into a thriving educational institution serving over 400 underprivileged youth. Nayi Disha's mission is not just to educate, but to transform lives. The NGO provides a comprehensive academic foundation, covering subjects such as English, Hindi, mathematics, environmental science, art, computers, and theater.

For children like Bappan Das, whose early years were marked by struggle and uncertainty, Nayi Disha has provided a lifeline. Bappan's journey from a disinterested student to an aspiring engineer is a testament to the impact of quality education and nurturing support. With Seema's guidance and the dedication of Nayi Disha's teachers, Bappan and countless others are realizing their full potential.

One of the key challenges Nayi Disha faces is student retention. Many families in the slum clusters have roots in remote villages, leading to frequent absences as they travel back for various reasons. Despite this challenge, Seema and her team remain committed to welcoming these children back with open arms, understanding that education is their best hope for a brighter future.

The success of Nayi Disha's model has led to the establishment of additional centers, including one in the Indira Colony, where 65 students currently study. Beyond academics, Nayi Disha focuses on holistic development, fostering confidence, communication skills, and social responsibility through activities like theater sessions and volunteer-led English classes.

However, sustaining Nayi Disha's operations requires ongoing support and funding. Despite the challenges, Seema remains undeterred, trusting in the universe to provide for the children she serves. Her unwavering commitment and the support of the community continue to drive Nayi Disha forward, ensuring that every child has access to the transformative power of education.

As Nayi Disha celebrates its journey, it stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have in shaping the future of a community. Through Seema's vision and the collective efforts of dedicated educators and supporters, Nayi Disha is not just a school—it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the limitless potential of every child.

Reference:

www.thebetterindia.com