At indigo foundation, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and shape their own future – no matter where they are born.
Yet for many children living in disadvantaged communities, access to education is far from guaranteed. Poverty, discrimination and lack of resources can all stand in the way of a child continuing their education and reaching their full potential.
This End of Financial Year, we’re highlighting the inspiring work of our partners in India who are creating opportunities for children and women through community-led education and support programs grounded in dignity, care and local leadership.
One of these partners is the Program for Education and Awareness Building (PEAB), which runs Village Education Centres in rural communities where many children face significant barriers to learning. Local tutors provide after-school support, encouragement and safe spaces where children can continue their education and build confidence in themselves and their future.
Undertaking similar work in a slum in the city of Madurai, our partner Uplift supports women and young people – including widows and survivors of domestic violence – to access education, build skills and create more promising futures for themselves and their families.
Close to 200 children regularly attend the after school classes run by our partners in India, the majority of them girls. What makes this work so powerful is not simply tutoring or homework support. PEAB’s approach recognises that education is deeply connected to wellbeing, confidence and community support.
When children stop attending classes regularly, tutors visit their homes to understand the challenges families may be facing and encourage children to continue learning. Tutors work closely with parents and caregivers, building trust and reinforcing the importance of education – particularly for girls, who are often at greater risk of missing out.
Sobana’s story reminds us that opportunities can change lives:
“My mother passed away when I was just 4 days old. Soon after, my father remarried. Until I was 4 years old, I lived with my grandparents. After that, I was brought up by my paternal aunt.
I became part of the Uzhudhamangalam PEAB Village Education Centre when I was in 4th standard. That is when I first met Prof. Semmalar (PEAB Senior Staff) during one of her visits to the centre. From day one, she has been a great inspiration to me.
After completing Year 12, I did not join college immediately and took a one-year break. During that time, I worked in a nearby private company and also served as a tutor at the same centre where I had studied.
As I did not have proper guidance or financial support from my family for higher education, I initially decided to discontinue my studies. It was during this period, Prof. Semmalar and her team spoke with me about my education and understood my family situation. They offered to support my college education through funds raised collectively from donors.
Initially, I was hesitant to accept this support. But then I realised that education would help me support children who are in situations similar to mine. I decided that I wanted to pursue something meaningful and contribute to society.”
With support and encouragement from the PEAB team, Sobana enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in Chennai. During her studies, she worked part-time to support herself financially, developed new digital skills and eventually started her own small business, “Sobi Net Park”, with the income allowing her to be financially independent.
She later completed postgraduate studies and now works as a Supervisor at the District Child Helpline in Chengalpattu, supporting vulnerable children and families in her community.
Today, Sobana is preparing for government exams and continues working towards her goal of serving others through public service.
“I strongly believe that I will achieve my dream one day. I remain deeply grateful to the entire team at PEAB for their constant support and belief in me throughout my journey.”
Young women like Sriharini are also building brighter futures through education and local mentorship.
Sriharini is currently studying Computer Science, while also tutoring younger students at her local Uplift centre and helping support her family. Her father works as a daily wage labourer and her mother continues working long hours as a tailor despite ongoing health challenges caused by years of physically demanding work.
Before joining the community support program at Uplift, Sriharini says she struggled with confidence and self-belief.
“Through constant guidance, I gradually developed the courage to speak boldly, participate actively and present myself with confidence.”
Today, she is pursuing opportunities that once felt beyond reach – while also helping younger students continue their own education journey.
“I am deeply grateful and truly indebted to those at Uplift for believing in me. I am also sincerely thankful to indigo foundation for their support and creating opportunities that have positively impacted my education and my family’s well-being. I will always carry their support with gratitude and strive to make them proud through my achievements and service.” – Sriharini
Across India, partners like PEAB and Uplift are helping girls and young women access education, mentorship and support that strengthens not only individuals, but entire communities.
This EOFY, your donation will help support community-led education and opportunity for girls, children and families where support is needed most – across our partnerships in India, Afghanistan, Indonesia and beyond.
Thank you for standing alongside communities creating long-term change through education, mentorship and local leadership.
With warm regards,
Jo Pradela
Board Chair
indigo foundation
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