Shekhar Ulhas Parse, Pune, Maharashtra
The biggest turning point in my life came when I gathered the courage to stop my mother from marrying off my younger sister. I didn’t want her to become a child bride. Because of my decision, her life was protected and she continued her education.
But I was not like this earlier. I had dropped out of school and had anger issues. I never listened to anyone in my family. After my father’s death, my mother raised me and my sister alone, but I never helped her. I was known in my community as a quarrelsome and careless boy with no goals or dreams.
Everything changed when I joined the GreenTara Foundation’s program, which is running in collaboration with TDH. I participated in various sessions and sports activities that helped me gain a better understanding of myself. Slowly, my anger reduced and I began listening to others. This improved my relationship with my mother and sister. I started helping my mother with household work and began supporting my sister in her studies. I have become calm, patient, and more responsible. I also participate in community discussions and people trust my opinions. This new confidence has given me a sense of identity and purpose.
I have rejoined school and want to continue my studies. The GreenTara Foundation changed my life and I encourage other children to join it and experience the same positive transformation.
(TERRE DES HOMMES works to protect the health, hygiene, education, safety, justice, and dignity of children. Through its initiatives, the organisation has improved the lives of many children. As it marks 50 years of supporting children’s rights in India, the above case story reflects the meaningful change its work has created.)
