Impact Lens - Impactlens

School-Children Lead the Charge for Cleanliness

A Journey from freelance to full-time success in Makeup Artistry

United Way Hyderabad created a meaningful social change in backing initiatives that uplifted marginalized groups, particularly those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Pritesh Kamble, who leads the Inclusion Unit at CYDA, has been a guiding force for many individuals. In a world where pursuing one’s passion often comes with significant challenges,

Educators Need Education Too — About Menstruation

By Soumyashree Mohanty Imagine getting your first period and being told to sit outside the exam hall to write your paper. Shocking, right? But this actually happened. A young Dalit girl from a private school in Tamil Nadu was forced to sit outside the exam hall during her exam because

Empowering women to create their own businesses

Mahindra Accelo’s innovative initiative is transforming the lives of women by empowering them with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in business. Through this impactful project, women are gaining the confidence and tools to take charge of their futures, leading to greater financial independence and self-reliance. Manisha Bhalerao,

Migration and Urbanisation: Dynamics of Exclusion and Exploitation

Dr. Kuldeepsingh Rajput Urbanisation in India is a defining feature of the country’s economic and social transformation, with cities emerging as ’Growth Engines. Cities have long been considered the driving force of economic, social, and cultural development. They are hubs of innovation, commerce, and opportunity, attracting people from diverse backgrounds

How Pradnya Transformed Her Life Against All Odds

Bajaj Finserv’s pioneering initiative, Non-Traditional Livelihood, is revolutionizing the lives of women by empowering them with transformative skills and knowledge. Under this impactful project, Mohan Kandekar, Skill Centre Head of Ahilyanagar, testifies to the profound influence this engagement has had on the lives of women, unlocking new opportunities and fostering

From Exclusion to Empowerment: An Entrepreneur’s Story

By Pritesh Kamble From exclusion to empowerment, from survival to success—come, let’s witness how an incredible journey unfolded! Read this story of a transgender. Jyoti (name changed) journey is more than a tale of triumph; it is an emblem of perseverance, courage, and the indomitable human spirit. Born into a

Stories are windows to the soul. They offer a glimpse into other lives, spark our imaginations, and foster empathy. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure, a poignant drama, or a heartwarming tale, stories have the power to transport us, teach us, and inspire us. So, make time for reading and discover the magic that unfolds within each page.

Recent Stories

Breaking Barriers: Built a thriving business from scratch

Prem’s journey from an uncertain graduate to a thriving entrepreneur was shaped by the focused support of United Way Hyderabad empowering youth through entrepreneurship and skill development. With training, mentorship, and financial assistance of Pritesh Kamble, Director Rainbow Roots Foundation, Prem gained the knowledge, confidence, and independence needed to build

A New Beginning: Rekha’s Transformation from Farmer to Entrepreneur

Rekha’s inspiring journey from a struggling farmer to a confident entrepreneur reflects the transformative power of inclusive, grassroots interventions. This transformation came to life through the dedicated support of KSB Limited, which is committed to advancing gender equity and enabling sustainable economic opportunities in underserved communities. The initiative, brought to

Volunteers: A Catalyst for Social Development

– Priya Pharande Program Manager, Youth (CYDA) Volunteering has evolved from spontaneous acts of charity into a structured, impactful component of sustainable development. In today’s interconnected world, it is no longer just an act of goodwill—it is a powerful tool for community transformation, individual empowerment, and bridging social divides. Historically

Against All Odds: The Unstoppable Rise of Youth Power”

– Priya Pharande Program Manager of Youth unit in Centre for Youth Development & Activities. In the heart of Pune’s slums, a transformation is brewing. Amidst the cramped lanes and makeshift homes, a group of young people are defying the odds to create a brighter future for themselves and their

Lighting the way – A Journey from repair shop to successful Entrepreneur

Nanda’s inspiring transformation from a small repair shop owner to a successful LED bulb entrepreneur was made possible through the support of Bajaj Finserv, whose continued partnership in the EDP project in Nashik has been instrumental in empowering grassroots entrepreneurs like her. Avinash Sonavane, Project Coordinator at CYDA, writes about

Threading Dreams into Reality – A path towards success

The unwavering support extended by United Way Hyderabad towards the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ communities has been instrumental in bringing about meaningful change and deserves high praise. Pritesh Kamble, Director, Rainbow Roots Foundation, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and relentless commitment in engaging with the LGBTQIA+ community. Through his inspiring leadership and

How Kitchen Gardens transform lives?

The transformation in Chitra, a tribal woman from Nandurbar, was made possible with the support of Plan International, which played a crucial role in empowering her journey. Wasim Shaikh, Program Coordinator from CYDA, provided dedicated mentorship and guidance. Starting with a small kitchen garden, Chitra improved her family’s economic status.

Lata Shivnath Chatur’s Entrepreneurial Success

The dedicated efforts of Youth Aid Foundation, with support from Bajaj Finserv, have played a transformative role in empowering grassroots women like Lata Chatur. Their commitment to nurturing rural entrepreneurship has uplifted individuals and also strengthened entire communities. Manisha Bhalerao, Project Officer at YAF, has been instrumental in guiding and

Breaking the Silence: Menstrual Hygiene Management in Deolapar Tribal School

Menstrual hygiene is not just a health issue—it is a matter of dignity, rights, and equality. The success and transformation among adolescent girls at Gurukul Ashram, supported by Persistent Foundation, demonstrate that when given the right knowledge and support, young girls can become agents of change, ensuring a future where

June 18th: A Date India Cannot Ignore

The article is written by Soumyashree Mohanty, Research Associate, CYDA, Yogita Bengude and Shivani Raut, Interns, CYDA, MMM’s Shankarrao Chavan Law College, Pune. To raise awareness and inspire action, the United Nations observes the International Day for Countering Hate Speech on June 18 each year. The goal is to promote