German Visionary Empowers Global Changemakers: How Sabriye Tenberken Helped Launch 180 NGOs

Creating Global Changemakers: Sabriye Tenberken's Visionary Work in Kerala

Driven by her passion for social impact, blind German activist Sabriye Tenberken founded 'kanthari' in Kerala, training individuals worldwide to create transformative NGOs.

Sabriye Tenberken, a remarkable blind woman from Germany, has significantly influenced global social entrepreneurship through her pioneering training institute, kanthari, in Kerala, India. Her efforts have empowered 180 individuals from diverse backgrounds to establish impactful NGOs worldwide, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

One such inspiring story is that of G. Karthikeyan, a psychologist from Pondicherry. During his 15 years working in an orphanage, Karthikeyan observed the unique challenges faced by children with disabilities, who often struggled to integrate into mainstream society. Determined to help these children achieve independence, he found his answer in kanthari during a trip through South India in 2012.

At kanthari’s Thiruvananthapuram campus, Karthikeyan received comprehensive training in corporate communication, fundraising, social venture design, and more. The supportive environment and hands-on experiences transformed his dream into reality. Today, his initiative, Sristi Village, empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education, life skills training, and agriculture.

Sabriye’s own journey is equally inspiring. After losing her sight at age 12, she faced bullying and exclusion. However, she transformed her perspective, embracing her disability and excelling in activities like skiing and horse riding. She went on to study Tibetology at the University of Bonn, where she developed the Tibetan braille script, later recognized officially in braille literature.

Denied opportunities due to her blindness, Sabriye decided to create her own path. Along with Dutch partner Paul Kronenberg, she founded kanthari in 2009. Their vision was to empower individuals with the courage to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful social change, regardless of their academic background.

Kanthari’s rigorous one-year program, including seven months on campus, equips participants with essential skills such as project planning, fundraising, financial management, and public speaking. The diverse and inclusive environment fosters mutual learning and support, with participants from 55 countries benefiting from scholarships covering all expenses.

The name 'kanthari' was inspired by a potent chilli that, despite its small size, packs a powerful punch – much like the changemakers trained at the institute. Participants are taught through creative, participatory workshops, culminating in a diploma course in entrepreneurship skills development.

Sabriye’s approach is rooted in the belief that limitations can be springboards for greatness. Her earlier initiative, Braille Without Borders in Tibet, rehabilitated and trained blind children, enabling them to integrate into regular schools and pursue vocational training. This philosophy continues to drive the success of kanthari, fostering an ecosystem of humanity and kindness.

Through kanthari and Braille Without Borders, Sabriye Tenberken and Paul Kronenberg are building a world where disabilities are seen not as limitations but as opportunities for innovation and resilience. As Sabriye aptly puts it, “No matter what the disability, it is never a limitation.”

Reference:

thebetterindia.com