Author: Harini K

My real education began on the roads,Not in a classroom, but in lived episodes. Mecheri, M.Kalipatti, Viruthasampatti,Pottaneri, Kuttapatty, Thanikkuttapatty…Two years back, just names on a mapNow, pieces of my heart. I’ve lived 22 years in my own village,But never walked its every turn.Yet in the past 2 years, I walked like a wanderer with purpose […]

“Summer is boring akka..!” A third-grader hit me with that in the last week of April, her voice a mix of resignation and a plea. In her world, summer vacation had settled into a familiar, monotonous rhythm: “Play, Eat, Sleep, Repeat.” As a JSW Foundation Fellow working in the 8 villages of Mecheri Block, I […]

To my co-fellows 💛 My Fellowship journeyFirst time away from homeA place unknown Nithin, Sowmya, SanthiyaYou made location homeWarmth replaced the distance With Santhiya, the scorching ridesYou found joy in the sun’s glareMade challenge an adventure With Valli, a simple callFieldwork stress dissolvedCalm support, casually given Nutan, training days sharedRoomie laughter, light and clearThe happiest […]

There’s a world of difference between simple change and profound transformation. Change can be gradual, even superficial. Transformation, however, reshapes you from the inside out. It redefines your boundaries, rebuilds your confidence, and redirects your life’s trajectory. Looking back, I realize I haven’t just changed; I’ve been transformed. And the catalyst for this incredible metamorphosis? The JSW Foundation Fellowship. […]

Smartphones.They’ve become so deeply embedded in our lives that it’s hard to imagine a world without them. From newborns hypnotized by rhymes to grandparents forwarding “Good Morning” messages, everyone’s onboard this digital ride. And why not? They connect us across continents, deliver knowledge in seconds, and allow us to capture memories with a single tap. […]

“Don’t lose the child within you.” It’s a phrase I’ve heard more times than I can count. You’ll find it in motivational speeches, in sentimental Instagram captions, on fridge magnets, and even the occasional WhatsApp forward from an old friend. But for the longest time, I didn’t get it. Why should I hold on to […]

Language is more than just words; it is a bridge that connects people, ideas, and opportunities. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to communicate in English opens doors to endless possibilities. Recognizing this, Mission Empower launched the “Speak Up !” competition, aimed at enhancing students’ speaking skills across six government schools in Mecheri Block, […]

In an era where smartphones are an inseparable part of daily life, the way children interact with technology can shape their future. While digital skills are essential, excessive screen time and unregulated smartphone use pose risks that can’t be ignored. Enter “Skill Up !”, an initiative by Mission Empower that aims to equip middle school […]

Every young girl deserves the opportunity to dream big, explore endless possibilities, and chase a career that fuels her passion. Yet, for many girls in government higher secondary schools, societal barriers, financial constraints, and a lack of awareness often dim their aspirations. Recognizing this, Mission Empower launched the Get Ahead initiative, aimed at empowering 9th-grade […]

Some journeys are more than just travel. They are moments of pure magic, deep connection, and unforgettable memories. On February 2, 2025, the most awaited part of our travel workshop finally arrived. We were off to the road to heaven—White Rann of Kutch and Dholavira. Seventeen fellows, brimming with excitement, boarded a bus from our […]