Asha's Career Counseling Workshops for University Students
Asha recently held a series of Career Counseling Workshops for university students in the last week of October. Each session was tailored to students from Arts, Science, and Commerce backgrounds, with faculty from Pratham Institute guiding the workshops.
These sessions were designed to help students make informed career decisions by covering topics like self-discovery, the relevance of their subjects, essential skills for their fields, and current industry trends.
The workshops provided students with tools to boost self-awareness and gain practical insights. They also offered actionable advice on building relevant skills, exploring resources, and forming valuable industry connections. This initiative aimed to empower students to confidently pursue their chosen career paths.
These sessions were designed to help students make informed career decisions by covering topics like self-discovery, the relevance of their subjects, essential skills for their fields, and current industry trends.
The workshops provided students with tools to boost self-awareness and gain practical insights. They also offered actionable advice on building relevant skills, exploring resources, and forming valuable industry connections. This initiative aimed to empower students to confidently pursue their chosen career paths.
From Slums to Success: Asha Alumna Priyanka Inspires the Next Generation
Every Saturday, we host an alumni meeting in Asha centres to connect Asha alumni with our younger students, fostering motivation and inspiration.
These gatherings beautifully embody Asha's Pay it Forward value, showing how education can break the cycle of poverty.
In the photos below, you'll see Priyanka, an Asha alumna now working at Barclays Bank in Delhi.
With Asha's support, she secured an apprenticeship, despite her Arts background, and is now permanently employed in a senior role. Married and a homeowner, Priyanka comes to inspire the youngsters in the slum she once lived in.
These gatherings beautifully embody Asha's Pay it Forward value, showing how education can break the cycle of poverty.
In the photos below, you'll see Priyanka, an Asha alumna now working at Barclays Bank in Delhi.
With Asha's support, she secured an apprenticeship, despite her Arts background, and is now permanently employed in a senior role. Married and a homeowner, Priyanka comes to inspire the youngsters in the slum she once lived in.
Bringing Hope on Wheels: Friends of Asha Sacramento's Fundraiser for a Mobile Medical Van
The Friends of Asha (FOA) Sacramento Chapter, led by the dedicated Dr Nalini Prasad and Manmohan Passi, recently hosted a wonderful fundraising event on Zoom on October 12th. The focus of the event was to raise vital resources for the fabrication, fit-out, supplies, and one year of operating costs for a new mobile medical van. This van will bring essential healthcare services to some of the poorest slum communities in Northeast Delhi and also serve as a hub for education and empowerment.
It was a joy to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new supporters. Dr Kiran shared inspiring updates on Asha’s recent initiatives and highlighted the critical impact this van will have on slum residents living in extreme poverty. We are hopeful that the van will be operational by the first quarter of 2025, helping to transform the lives of thousands of people through the kindness and generosity of our FOA friends.
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Manmohan Passi and Dr Nalini Prasad for your tireless efforts, from sending emails and making phone calls to following up with your networks.
Deepest thanks to FOA Australia for helping us with resources to buy the van. You are such a fine example of a generous and abundant mindset.
It was a joy to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new supporters. Dr Kiran shared inspiring updates on Asha’s recent initiatives and highlighted the critical impact this van will have on slum residents living in extreme poverty. We are hopeful that the van will be operational by the first quarter of 2025, helping to transform the lives of thousands of people through the kindness and generosity of our FOA friends.
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Manmohan Passi and Dr Nalini Prasad for your tireless efforts, from sending emails and making phone calls to following up with your networks.
Deepest thanks to FOA Australia for helping us with resources to buy the van. You are such a fine example of a generous and abundant mindset.
Beginning of Asha Yuva Mandal Group
We have some exciting news to share! We have begun the Asha Yuva Mandal (Youth Group) for ages 11-18 across all our communities! Inspired by Dr Kiran's vision, this group addresses a crucial gap—after spending their formative years in Asha Bal Mandals, many young people got lost and had no sense of purpose.
The Yuva Mandal will focus on several key areas:
- Academics and Homework
- Tracking the academic progress of each student
- Attending parents teachers meetings at their schools
- Teaching them IT through our IT Labs
- Encouraging them to read books, magazines and newspapers in English
- Making sure they get the subjects of their choice in class 11. That they are not forced into the arts if they are interested in Science or Commerce based subjects.
- Foster their interest in science
- Doing community work
- And of course, being taught to follow the Asha Way of Life
We are all happy about this new initiative as are the young people!
The Yuva Mandal will focus on several key areas:
- Academics and Homework
- Tracking the academic progress of each student
- Attending parents teachers meetings at their schools
- Teaching them IT through our IT Labs
- Encouraging them to read books, magazines and newspapers in English
- Making sure they get the subjects of their choice in class 11. That they are not forced into the arts if they are interested in Science or Commerce based subjects.
- Foster their interest in science
- Doing community work
- And of course, being taught to follow the Asha Way of Life
We are all happy about this new initiative as are the young people!
Asha’s Annual Report 2023-2024: Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
Dear Friends,
We are thrilled to present Asha’s Annual Report for 2023-2024—a year marked by remarkable achievements and significant milestones. This year, we proudly celebrated Asha's 35th
Anniversary, a testament to decades of unwavering commitment to uplifting communities. We are also honoured to share the news of Dr. Kiran’s Doctoral Award (Honoris Causa) from the University of Sydney, recognizing her outstanding contributions to social work.
This report offers an in-depth look at the transformative impact Asha has made this year in Health, Education, Empowerment, and, crucially, Emergency Relief. It also highlights the key events hosted by Asha, showcases the invaluable visits from dignitaries, volunteers, and supporters to our slum communities, and underscores the Asha way of life and core values that are a testament to our work.
None of this would have been possible without your steadfast support. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and dedication to our mission. As we look ahead, we ask for your continued partnership in driving meaningful change.
We invite you to share this report with your networks, helping to strengthen Asha's message and extend our reach even further.
Thank you for standing with us.
With our deepest appreciation,
The Asha Team
Click the link for Annual Report
https://asha-india.org/.../ashas-annual-report-2023-2024.../
We are thrilled to present Asha’s Annual Report for 2023-2024—a year marked by remarkable achievements and significant milestones. This year, we proudly celebrated Asha's 35th
Anniversary, a testament to decades of unwavering commitment to uplifting communities. We are also honoured to share the news of Dr. Kiran’s Doctoral Award (Honoris Causa) from the University of Sydney, recognizing her outstanding contributions to social work.
This report offers an in-depth look at the transformative impact Asha has made this year in Health, Education, Empowerment, and, crucially, Emergency Relief. It also highlights the key events hosted by Asha, showcases the invaluable visits from dignitaries, volunteers, and supporters to our slum communities, and underscores the Asha way of life and core values that are a testament to our work.
None of this would have been possible without your steadfast support. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and dedication to our mission. As we look ahead, we ask for your continued partnership in driving meaningful change.
We invite you to share this report with your networks, helping to strengthen Asha's message and extend our reach even further.
Thank you for standing with us.
With our deepest appreciation,
The Asha Team
Click the link for Annual Report
https://asha-india.org/.../ashas-annual-report-2023-2024.../
Mercer University's Impactful Visit to Asha’s Slum Communities
We were thrilled to host nursing students and tutors from Mercer University, USA, in Asha's slum communities of Mayapuri, Seelampur, and Kalkaji this week! Your visit made a meaningful impact, and we hope to welcome you back soon!
Julianna Watson’s English Classes for Asha’s College Students
Meet Julianna, a 22-year-old Asha volunteer from Boston, United States and the daughter of our great supporter and friend, Steve Watson!
Julianna has taken a wonderful initiative to help college students in our slum communities who struggle with English proficiency. Understanding the challenges these students face in higher education; she offers daily one-hour online English classes. From basic grammar to spoken English, her classes are designed to strengthen their language skills and open up greater opportunities for their future success.
Thank you, Julianna, for your dedication and compassion in making a difference!
Julianna has taken a wonderful initiative to help college students in our slum communities who struggle with English proficiency. Understanding the challenges these students face in higher education; she offers daily one-hour online English classes. From basic grammar to spoken English, her classes are designed to strengthen their language skills and open up greater opportunities for their future success.
Thank you, Julianna, for your dedication and compassion in making a difference!
Andrew Kadets’ Impact on Farman’s Journey from Asha's Chanderpuri Slum
Andrew Kadets, a senior attorney from Boston Law School who works for a company in Boston. He teaches English online to one of our kids called Farman, a poor student from the Asha's Chanderpuri slum community. Farman has grown a lot, his English has improved remarkably, and who knows, he might end up in Australia one day. I gave Farman a laptop, so he now has wifi and can take his classes with relative ease, even though trains pass by his house every few minutes, stray dogs bark all the time, and loud music blares through neighboring shanties. Thank you so much, Andrew, for all the hard work you do with Farman.
Enriching Evening with the Hemptons: Celebrating Friendship and Commitment to Asha
Wonderful evening with the Hemptons at their home. Many of you met them at the 35th A celebrations. Prof Hempton, you might recall, spoke at the celebrations at the British High Commissioner’s residence. Louanne is the National Coordinator and Treasurer of Friends of Asha( USA) and has been faithfully performing this role since the inception of the organization. They are filled with passion for Asha, and it’s such a joy to have intellectual and ethical conversations with them. Thank you, Louanne and David, for such a rich and deep friendship.
Asha's 35th Anniversary: Speech by Dr Jean Peteet, Governing Board Member - Friends of Asha USA
A video of Dr Jean Peteet, FOA USA board member, speaking at our 35th anniversary. Her contributions have been amazing. Aside from financial contributions, she helps with English teaching online, writing for Asha papers and publications, and many other things. I enjoyed listening to her very nice speech again! Click the link to view the video: youtu.be/Q9fevnmlorc?si=qwnPvGItJ_u1Kcbv
Speech by Professor David Hempton of Harvard University at Asha’s 35th: British High Commission
Professor David Hempton from Harvard University’s speech at Asha’s 35th anniversary event, held at the British High Commission. Click the link to view the video: youtu.be/NOs07lapPyY?si=dyYdN2lt-4wlnmcO
Celebrating Longtime Friends: A Special Evening with Drs. John and Jean Peteet
What a marvelous evening with Drs John and Jean Peteet, Asha’s dear friends and supporters of many years. Dr John Peteet is a senior Psychiatrist at the famous Dana Farber Cancer Research Hospital in Boston. Dr Jean Peteet is a Professor Emerita at Boston University. Jean has been teaching English online to two girls living in extreme poverty in Asha slums. And how remarkably they have both improved. One of them might just end up for a Masters in Australia. Both John and Jean will be coming to Delhi for Asha’s 35th anniversary celebrations next year, and I am so very excited about that. John will also do some mental health training relevant to low-income settings for our nurse practitioners and social workers. Thank you, Dr John and Dr Jean Peteet, for this wonderful friendship that continues to bring hope and joy to so many poor in the slums.
Asha graduate Tripti from the Vivekananda Slum Community embarks on her journey to Achieve her dreams with the Support of Dr Kiran and the Asha Team
Asha graduate Tripti from Vivekananda slum community has reached the University of Sydney to do her masters in strategic public relations at Sydney University under Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship, covering her educational and living expenses for the entire course. Tripti will be there for one and a half years. We sincerely thank the Sydney University Team for giving Tripti this life-changing opportunity.
Restoring Dignity: Ramyag’s Journey with Asha
Ramyag, 71 years old, sat on the creaky wooden bed in the small, dimly lit shanty in Amar Park Zakhira. He gently fed his paralyzed wife, Sheela, a spoonful of mashed lentils and potatoes, their daily routine for the past five decades. The weight of their years together hung heavy in the air, alongside the absence of their sons, who had long since drifted away, leaving Ramyag and Sheela to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Despite their struggles, they found solace in the Love and Lunch program, where Asha, a beacon of hope in their community, provided them with hot nutritious lunch and a ration packet every month to take care of their dinner. It was a lifeline that ensured they had something to eat, sustaining them through their twilight years.
But as age crept upon Ramyag, so did health complications. Dental issues plagued him, robbing him of his ability to enjoy the simplest of pleasures—eating solid food. With each lost tooth, he felt a piece of his dignity slip away, his once sturdy frame now reduced to a mere shadow of its former self.
Then came April, a month that would mark a turning point in Ramyag’s life. The inauguration of Asha’s dental clinic brought a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows. Ramyag, with trembling hands and a heart heavy with anticipation, became one of its first patients.
Dr. Komal Gandhi, Asha’s compassionate dentist, treated Ramyag with utmost care and respect. With steady hands, she removed six teeth, alleviating Ramyag’s pain and discomfort. Then came the fitting of the denture for his lower jaw—a simple yet transformative act that would change Ramyag’s life forever.
Two weeks later, as Ramyag gingerly tested his new denture, tears welled up in his eyes. The sensation of biting into a crisp chappati, once a distant memory, now flooded his senses with overwhelming joy. It was as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, and he felt a newfound sense of freedom.
Despite their struggles, they found solace in the Love and Lunch program, where Asha, a beacon of hope in their community, provided them with hot nutritious lunch and a ration packet every month to take care of their dinner. It was a lifeline that ensured they had something to eat, sustaining them through their twilight years.
But as age crept upon Ramyag, so did health complications. Dental issues plagued him, robbing him of his ability to enjoy the simplest of pleasures—eating solid food. With each lost tooth, he felt a piece of his dignity slip away, his once sturdy frame now reduced to a mere shadow of its former self.
Then came April, a month that would mark a turning point in Ramyag’s life. The inauguration of Asha’s dental clinic brought a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows. Ramyag, with trembling hands and a heart heavy with anticipation, became one of its first patients.
Dr. Komal Gandhi, Asha’s compassionate dentist, treated Ramyag with utmost care and respect. With steady hands, she removed six teeth, alleviating Ramyag’s pain and discomfort. Then came the fitting of the denture for his lower jaw—a simple yet transformative act that would change Ramyag’s life forever.
Two weeks later, as Ramyag gingerly tested his new denture, tears welled up in his eyes. The sensation of biting into a crisp chappati, once a distant memory, now flooded his senses with overwhelming joy. It was as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, and he felt a newfound sense of freedom.
Inauguration of Asha’s Physiotherapy Center Brings Hope and Relief to Delhi’s slum community residents
Asha’s Physiotherapy Center at the Polyclinic was inaugurated by eminent orthopedic surgeon Dr Pradeep Sharma on May 30th, 2024. What a wonderful occasion, to be able to open such a center for the poor who have no money to go to a physiotherapy center in Delhi. Elderly patients with arthritis, spondylitis, spinal injuries, falls, fractures from osteoporosis, conditions due to a poor diet, post-surgery PT, hemiplegia, paraplegia, the list goes on. They had given up all hope, and are lying in bed, suffering silently in pain, and unable to perform their daily tasks. The physiotherapy at Asha will be followed up with exercises at home and at the Asha clinics in their respective areas through the local Asha team. Such patients need a great deal of motivation and emotional support since physiotherapy can be a long drawn process that requires much discipline and determination. After inauguration, the center has already begun. Patients in acute pain are treated with machines in addition to medication. This is followed by an exercise regimen. The patients were filled with gratitude for this service, being provided with compassion and emotional support. It’s a free service, only for the very poor. Others who can afford to go to centers that charge, are not seen here.
Many Asha doctors, board members and volunteer physicians were present on this wonderful occasion, in addition to our entire health team. Friends of Asha from the US and UK also joined on Zoom.
Please encourage interested physiotherapists to come and volunteer! And do mobilize resources for this facility since everything is free! Thank you as ever for your generosity and your sharing of the vision.
Many Asha doctors, board members and volunteer physicians were present on this wonderful occasion, in addition to our entire health team. Friends of Asha from the US and UK also joined on Zoom.
Please encourage interested physiotherapists to come and volunteer! And do mobilize resources for this facility since everything is free! Thank you as ever for your generosity and your sharing of the vision.
Inauguration of New IT Centre Brings Joy and Opportunity to Vivekananda Slum Colony
On the 11th of May 2024, Mr. Godfrey Martin, Asha’s Associate Director, inaugurated a new IT Centre at Vivekananda slum colony. Thanks to the generous support Asha was able to buy laptops and accessories. So many children and community members gathered together in happiness. Tripti, the Asha student from here, has got a fantastic score of 7.5 overall on her IELTS exam. It’s such a hard exam, and we are so very proud of her. She is due to leave for Sydney in mid-June. She will be doing a Masters in Strategic Public Relations at Sydney University. What a wonderful collaboration with Friends of Asha. These exciting transformational changes are happening because of our shared partnership in this vision.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Celebrating Asha’s 35th Anniversary at British High Commissioner’s Residence
What a wonderful first day of our celebrations we had at an event hosted by the British High Commissioner HE Alex Ellis in his garden. This was on 19th Feb. The HC, Prof David Hempton, Professor and Former Dean of Harvard Divinity School, Richard Leder, Director and Governing Board member of Australian Friends of Asha, Dr David Finch, Chair of FOA FB all made beautifully crafted remarks. An alumnus, Abhishek, and CHV Meena from Anna Nagar spoke movingly.
His Excellency honoured me; he was honoured by an Asha Alumnus, following which the formal event came to an end.
This was followed by absolutely delicious food prepared by the Asha team and community members that the entire crowd enjoyed.
His Excellency honoured me; he was honoured by an Asha Alumnus, following which the formal event came to an end.
This was followed by absolutely delicious food prepared by the Asha team and community members that the entire crowd enjoyed.
Mayapuri Celebration: A Vibrant Tapestry of Joy, Unity, and Gratitude
We had a wonderful celebration in one of our slum communities called Mayapuri. We had a beautiful colorful marquee, a nice stage, and lots of floral decorations.
Dr John Peteet, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard, was our Chief Guest. He gave a beautiful speech. I made bilingual remarks since there was a huge crowd from the communities. Louanne Hempton, Mark Baines, Dr Dick Hogben, Asha student Jaisika spoke as well.
The Asha Way of Life was read in English and Hindi with candles. There were lots of lovely colorful dances by children and young people of Asha communities.
Founder was honored by Mayapuri’s oldest CHV Prema, while those who had been serving at Asha for 20 years or longer were also honored.
Prerna Dr Kiran’s daughter and son-in-law Adi flew in all the way from LA and gave us a surprise! You cannot imagine how thrilled she was. And what’s more, Adi’s parents also flew in from Chennai specially for this occasion.
There was lots of good food and free-style Bollywood dancing on the dance floor at the end. What an indescribably beautiful day. Never have we had such a big celebration in an Asha community.
Thanks to everyone who came and made the Asha community members feel so special and loved.
Dr John Peteet, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard, was our Chief Guest. He gave a beautiful speech. I made bilingual remarks since there was a huge crowd from the communities. Louanne Hempton, Mark Baines, Dr Dick Hogben, Asha student Jaisika spoke as well.
The Asha Way of Life was read in English and Hindi with candles. There were lots of lovely colorful dances by children and young people of Asha communities.
Founder was honored by Mayapuri’s oldest CHV Prema, while those who had been serving at Asha for 20 years or longer were also honored.
Prerna Dr Kiran’s daughter and son-in-law Adi flew in all the way from LA and gave us a surprise! You cannot imagine how thrilled she was. And what’s more, Adi’s parents also flew in from Chennai specially for this occasion.
There was lots of good food and free-style Bollywood dancing on the dance floor at the end. What an indescribably beautiful day. Never have we had such a big celebration in an Asha community.
Thanks to everyone who came and made the Asha community members feel so special and loved.
Asha’s 35th Anniversary: A Week of Celebration Culminates in a Spectacular Finale
In her eminent style, Dr Kiran narrates about the week of exciting celebration for Asha's momentous 35-year-old journey.
Hello everyone, what a wonderful end to a week of exciting and joyous celebrations! This final event was held at Sai Auditorium with over 300 people attending.
Once again, Freddy and Sahil co mc’ed the event. Sahil is an Asha Graduate who now works for Macquarie bank in India in quite a senior position. He did us all so proud.
The Chief Guest for the evening was Alex Chernov AC QC, Former Governor of Victoria and an eminent Australian.
The event began with the lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the spreading of light. The lighting ceremony was performed by our Chief Guest, one representative each from the Global Friends of Asha, a representative of the community, and the Founder.
This was followed by remarks made by me and the Chief Guest
Asha community members and team put on some absolutely mesmerizing performances! The level of talent was unbelievable.
Rubina shared her story with a group of highly accomplished Asha Alumni standing on the stage and looking oh-so smart.
Saira, a CHV, spoke about the terrible poverty her life began with and how she is a highly respected CHV today. A group of CHVs stood on stage representing the many we have all over Asha and who have revolutionized health care in the slums, along with Asha’s health team.
We invited a representative group of Asha students who were at university at the present time, studying various courses and colleges. How proud we all were with their achievements.
Many senior doctors from my med school cohort (1977) were present, and a couple called Sudipto and Carreen sang beautifully for us. They also represented my cohort, who has always helped and stood by me for years. I honored them with shawls after they sang.
David Briggs and his team from Discovery Trust put on a lovely performance to demonstrate the Asha values.
Absolutely wonderful to have FOA from all over the world! It was so much fun!
Hello everyone, what a wonderful end to a week of exciting and joyous celebrations! This final event was held at Sai Auditorium with over 300 people attending.
Once again, Freddy and Sahil co mc’ed the event. Sahil is an Asha Graduate who now works for Macquarie bank in India in quite a senior position. He did us all so proud.
The Chief Guest for the evening was Alex Chernov AC QC, Former Governor of Victoria and an eminent Australian.
The event began with the lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the spreading of light. The lighting ceremony was performed by our Chief Guest, one representative each from the Global Friends of Asha, a representative of the community, and the Founder.
This was followed by remarks made by me and the Chief Guest
Asha community members and team put on some absolutely mesmerizing performances! The level of talent was unbelievable.
Rubina shared her story with a group of highly accomplished Asha Alumni standing on the stage and looking oh-so smart.
Saira, a CHV, spoke about the terrible poverty her life began with and how she is a highly respected CHV today. A group of CHVs stood on stage representing the many we have all over Asha and who have revolutionized health care in the slums, along with Asha’s health team.
We invited a representative group of Asha students who were at university at the present time, studying various courses and colleges. How proud we all were with their achievements.
Many senior doctors from my med school cohort (1977) were present, and a couple called Sudipto and Carreen sang beautifully for us. They also represented my cohort, who has always helped and stood by me for years. I honored them with shawls after they sang.
David Briggs and his team from Discovery Trust put on a lovely performance to demonstrate the Asha values.
Absolutely wonderful to have FOA from all over the world! It was so much fun!
Joyful Reunion: Asha Alumni Reflect on Transformation and Empowerment
Last Saturday, when Delhi was overpouring with heavy rains, our Asha Alumni members turned it into a day of great enjoyment as they met at Dr Kiran. The occasion became a platform for everyone to go down the memory lanes of their association with Asha; for many, since childhood, for some during their secondary and senior secondary schooling. All were excited to share the transformation journey they could make with the support of Dr Kiran and Asha’s Team; many are employed in reputed corporate firms and companies. They were super excited to share how they manage life, balancing their work and family responsibilities and the happiness of getting good income that enables them to live in well-furnished houses compared to those small one-room shanties in their slums they lived with 7-8 that would leak during monsoons. The members who are yet to be employed gained inspiration from their seniors’ job-chasing journeys and the ‘never give up attitude’ coupled with their assurance to help them in job hunting.
All enjoyed the lunch, creating lighter moments followed by reading the ‘Asha Way of Life’ reinforcing everyone’s commitments towards the cause of Asha. These Alumni meets are becoming a occasion for our alums to recollect memories together!
All enjoyed the lunch, creating lighter moments followed by reading the ‘Asha Way of Life’ reinforcing everyone’s commitments towards the cause of Asha. These Alumni meets are becoming a occasion for our alums to recollect memories together!
Asha Celebrates Mahila Mandals' Life-changing Journey
It was a wonderful moment of celebration when Asha honoured the empowered office bearers of Mahila Mandals across its slum communities, who had shaped not only their destinies with Asha but led thousands of women in the epoch-making journey of transformation. They shared riveting and pulsating narratives of how, under the leadership of Dr Kiran, the favourite and respected DrJi for everyone, with her far-sighted vision, and the Asha team's commitment, the script for this glorious journey of over three decades, which created new milestones of progress but more importantly, developed an enlightened mindset, progressive thought process and an environment filled with love without any barriers of caste, creed, or religion. The powerful voice of determination, which had resonated across the community, Government Offices, political leaders like MLAs and Councilors, and law and order agencies and evoked respect as a community interface, recreated magical moments depicting the power of change with an inherent belief in peace-making and rational dialogue which Asha had inculcated in them.
After the first session, the women bonded over lunch and shared unknown stories of their journeys with the Asha team and their comrades for many decades. It was a moment of respect and admiration for a dispassionate observer to see their multi-faceted roles as devoted housewives, responsible and caring mothers, and community leaders. The post-lunch session was the time to practice the Asha values-The sacred river, which purifies the heart of every Asha family member. The women practised the wonderful value of Affirmation with each other, and the Asha team Leaders expressed their love, respect and gratitude to their fellow soldiers who had shared a significant part of life's journey together. As we approached the golden rays of evening sunshine, the time was just right to practice Feet washing - the beautiful expression of Servanthood in Leadership in the sombre environment of peace and tranquillity.
Finally, the Asha team gave these wonderful women a small token of gift to respect and honor their life's journey and their relentless quest to steer the wheels of community progress and development, waiting to pass the baton to the next generation.
After the first session, the women bonded over lunch and shared unknown stories of their journeys with the Asha team and their comrades for many decades. It was a moment of respect and admiration for a dispassionate observer to see their multi-faceted roles as devoted housewives, responsible and caring mothers, and community leaders. The post-lunch session was the time to practice the Asha values-The sacred river, which purifies the heart of every Asha family member. The women practised the wonderful value of Affirmation with each other, and the Asha team Leaders expressed their love, respect and gratitude to their fellow soldiers who had shared a significant part of life's journey together. As we approached the golden rays of evening sunshine, the time was just right to practice Feet washing - the beautiful expression of Servanthood in Leadership in the sombre environment of peace and tranquillity.
Finally, the Asha team gave these wonderful women a small token of gift to respect and honor their life's journey and their relentless quest to steer the wheels of community progress and development, waiting to pass the baton to the next generation.
Generosity in Action: Asha Drivers and the Gardener becoming fine examples for living the "Asha Way of Life."
In a world often overshadowed by selfishness and apathy, a heart-touching event took place at Asha Polyclinic yesterday, reminding us of the power of compassion and unity. The dedicated and committed drivers who have been serving Asha for more than ten years, namely Mr Vimal, Mr Niranjan, Mr Jagat, Mr Rawat, and our gardener Mr Dhruv embraced the essence of the "Asha Way of Life" by organizing a delightful lunch for the Asha team. Drawing from their humble savings, they selflessly treated us to a mouthwatering feast with veg and non-veg dishes. Laughter, love, and joy filled the air as we shared this beautiful meal, ending with refreshing ice creams that cooled our minds.
Following this heartwarming gesture, all gathered to express profound gratitude to them. Asha's team leaders, nurses, finance personnel, and communication team members shared their experiences of working with them, highlighting their invaluable contributions, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone wholeheartedly appreciated their unwavering dedication, sincerity, and willingness to go above and beyond their call of duty. All affirmed their relentless efforts that contribute to the smooth functioning of Asha's work in the slums, offering vital support to our teams, volunteers, and visitors. Their kindness and care exemplify the spirit of Asha, lighting a beacon of hope for all who witness their noble actions. They serve as a shining example of how a simple act of generosity can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to embrace kindness and compassion in their own lives.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr Vimal, Mr Niranjan, Mr Jagat, Mr Rawat, and Mr Dhruv for reminding us of the power of a giving heart and inspiring us to embrace the "Asha Way of Life" and live it in its fullness. It is heartwarming to note that the Asha values have been deeply ingrained in every member of the Asha family and practised spontaneously.
Following this heartwarming gesture, all gathered to express profound gratitude to them. Asha's team leaders, nurses, finance personnel, and communication team members shared their experiences of working with them, highlighting their invaluable contributions, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone wholeheartedly appreciated their unwavering dedication, sincerity, and willingness to go above and beyond their call of duty. All affirmed their relentless efforts that contribute to the smooth functioning of Asha's work in the slums, offering vital support to our teams, volunteers, and visitors. Their kindness and care exemplify the spirit of Asha, lighting a beacon of hope for all who witness their noble actions. They serve as a shining example of how a simple act of generosity can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to embrace kindness and compassion in their own lives.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr Vimal, Mr Niranjan, Mr Jagat, Mr Rawat, and Mr Dhruv for reminding us of the power of a giving heart and inspiring us to embrace the "Asha Way of Life" and live it in its fullness. It is heartwarming to note that the Asha values have been deeply ingrained in every member of the Asha family and practised spontaneously.
Asha Student SuNNy Begins his journey at Sydney University
Another happy and proud moment! Asha student Sunny from the Mayapuri slum colony, reaches Sydney University! Early this morning, Tushar, and Sumit, two Asha scholars already studying at the University of Sydney, welcomed him.
In July, Sunny will begin his master’s in strategic public relations at Sydney University. Starting today, he will undergo one month of intensive English language training to prepare for his studies. He was selected for the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship, covering his educational and living expenses for the entire course. We sincerely thank the Sydney University Team for giving Sunny this life-changing opportunity.
Sunny's journey is another shining example of education's transformative power and the human spirit's resilience. It is a testament to our students' unwavering dedication and our team's tireless efforts.
Dear Sunny, may your journey at Sydney University be filled with knowledge, growth, and countless memorable experiences. Excel academically, come back and Pay it Forward to your community and society. Keep going and come out with flying colors!
In July, Sunny will begin his master’s in strategic public relations at Sydney University. Starting today, he will undergo one month of intensive English language training to prepare for his studies. He was selected for the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship, covering his educational and living expenses for the entire course. We sincerely thank the Sydney University Team for giving Sunny this life-changing opportunity.
Sunny's journey is another shining example of education's transformative power and the human spirit's resilience. It is a testament to our students' unwavering dedication and our team's tireless efforts.
Dear Sunny, may your journey at Sydney University be filled with knowledge, growth, and countless memorable experiences. Excel academically, come back and Pay it Forward to your community and society. Keep going and come out with flying colors!
Honouring Asha Community Health Volunteers’ Selfless Service
Last Saturday, a remarkable event unfolded as the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication of the Asha Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) were recognized and celebrated. These remarkable individuals are the backbone of the Asha Health program, and their selfless contributions have profoundly impacted the lives of residents in their communities. It was a moment to acknowledge their remarkable commitment and appreciate their invaluable work. In the event, the CHVs were honoured with appreciation and consolation gifts, symbolizing the profound gratitude felt towards them. These tokens of appreciation were given to recognize their hard work and to serve as an encouragement, reminding them that their efforts are valued and cherished, and a delicious lunch was organized to express gratitude and respect for the CHVs who have devoted their lives to serving the underprivileged in different slum colonies.
Beyond the gifts, the gathering provided a unique opportunity for the CHVs to connect and share their experiences. It was a platform where they could exchange stories, wisdom, and lessons learned, reinforcing their bond as a united force working towards a common goal—transforming lives.
Their relentless service has brought hope, healing, and a brighter future to those in need, suffering and ailing leaving an indelible mark on the community. Their selflessness, resilience, and compassion inspire us all, urging us to find ways to contribute to the well-being of our communities and create positive change.
Beyond the gifts, the gathering provided a unique opportunity for the CHVs to connect and share their experiences. It was a platform where they could exchange stories, wisdom, and lessons learned, reinforcing their bond as a united force working towards a common goal—transforming lives.
Their relentless service has brought hope, healing, and a brighter future to those in need, suffering and ailing leaving an indelible mark on the community. Their selflessness, resilience, and compassion inspire us all, urging us to find ways to contribute to the well-being of our communities and create positive change.
“Asha Alumni Reunion: Celebrating Memories, Connections, and Success!”
Last Saturday was filled with inspiration and motivation as 30 of the Asha Alumni met after many months to assess the ways to pay it forward in their slum communities. Laughter and joy permeated the air as they shared fond memories of their time in Asha. The alumnus spoke about their humble beginnings and how they succeeded in their respective fields with the support of Dr Kiran and the Asha family. The students expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Asha for the invaluable role in shaping their future.
It was a proud moment for Asha to note that all alumni are working in organisations like the British High Commission, PwC, Macquarie, Canadian High commission and Wipro, to name a few.
It was a proud moment for Asha to note that all alumni are working in organisations like the British High Commission, PwC, Macquarie, Canadian High commission and Wipro, to name a few.
British High Commissioner Alex Ellis visits Asha’s Mayapuri Slum Community.
Yesterday, His Excellency Alexander Ellis, the British High Commissioner to India visited Asha’s Mayapuri Slum Community as part of the UK’s Coronation Big Help Out initiative. After King Charles III’s Coronation in London on Saturday and Coronation Concert in Windsor on Sunday, Monday was designated a special bank holiday in the UK. As well having local street parties, the public were encouraged to join in the Big Help Out, a national initiative to raise awareness of volunteering and inspire people to help make a difference in their communities in honour of the King’s decades of public service.
The High Commissioner visited the Asha Community Centre in the slum, where he met women and college students whose lives are being transformed by the empowering work of Asha’s healthcare and education programmes. One of those students was Sunny, who grew up in a small one-room shanty by the railway line and has known great suffering and challenge in his life. Asha spotted his potential and supported him in his studies, enabling him to get into Delhi University where he recently graduated with a BA in Political Science. The High Commissioner has been giving his precious time to Sunny, helping him with his English studies, as a result of which he has just passed his IELTS exams and will be travelling to Sydney Australia to study for a Masters. It was a special occasion for Sunny to welcome the High Commissioner to his home community and as a mark of his gratitude and respect for his inspirational mentor, he presented him with a shawl and washed his feet, a practice promoted at Asha to honour others, regardless of their status, background, caste or religion.
The High Commissioner went on to participate in Asha’s Love & Lunch programme, where disadvantaged or abandoned elderly men and women are given a nutritious meal and emotional support. He walked around the lanes in the slum to get a better understanding of the challenges faced by families living there, and to meet and greet the local residents.
What a fantastic example of service and volunteering absolutely in keeping with the Big Help Out.
The High Commissioner visited the Asha Community Centre in the slum, where he met women and college students whose lives are being transformed by the empowering work of Asha’s healthcare and education programmes. One of those students was Sunny, who grew up in a small one-room shanty by the railway line and has known great suffering and challenge in his life. Asha spotted his potential and supported him in his studies, enabling him to get into Delhi University where he recently graduated with a BA in Political Science. The High Commissioner has been giving his precious time to Sunny, helping him with his English studies, as a result of which he has just passed his IELTS exams and will be travelling to Sydney Australia to study for a Masters. It was a special occasion for Sunny to welcome the High Commissioner to his home community and as a mark of his gratitude and respect for his inspirational mentor, he presented him with a shawl and washed his feet, a practice promoted at Asha to honour others, regardless of their status, background, caste or religion.
The High Commissioner went on to participate in Asha’s Love & Lunch programme, where disadvantaged or abandoned elderly men and women are given a nutritious meal and emotional support. He walked around the lanes in the slum to get a better understanding of the challenges faced by families living there, and to meet and greet the local residents.
What a fantastic example of service and volunteering absolutely in keeping with the Big Help Out.
Tushar: a testament to ‘Asha Way of Life’ as he donates his scholarship money for Riverbed crisis.
Here’s a beautiful story. Asha International Student Tushar who is studying for his Masters at Sydney University, has just been awarded the most prestigious scholarship for academic achievement at his residential college, St Paul’s. He decided to donate his entire scholarship money of 500 dollars towards the tragedy that has occurred on the River Bed. I wept when I was over the phone with me and told me this. My heart was deeply touched that a boy who played by the railway tracks as a child and lived in such great poverty all his life, found it within himself to experience their sorrow from afar and give so abundantly and generously. What a wonderful testament to following The Asha Way of Life. Here is a letter he wrote:
Hello everyone,
I hope this message finds you all well. I am writing today to share some exciting news, along with a message and an appeal related to a tragedy that has recently affected families living in the River Bed slum of Delhi.
As a postgraduate student at Sydney University, I am currently residing at one of its residential colleges, St Paul’s College. The centrepiece of academic life at this college is the weekly Formal Dinner and the semesterly Academic Dinner. During a recent Academic Dinner, I was honoured to receive the college’s most prestigious Amy Louise Hart Scholarship in recognition of my academic performance in previous semesters. This scholarship commemorates the long-serving Matron of St Paul’s College, Amy Louise Hart.
I wish to acknowledge that I would not have been able to come so far and achieve this accomplishment without the personal mentoring, love, and care of my mentor, Dr Kiran Ma’am. Whenever I face challenges or receive opportunities, I always turn to her for guidance and support. Upon learning of my recent achievement, I was thrilled to share the news with ma’am, who promptly extended her congratulations by calling me. I could hear the same joy and excitement in her wishes as I felt upon receiving the award.
As I had seen a post regarding riverbed communities, during our conversation, I expressed my desire to donate the money received as part of this award to the Asha family for aiding families whose homes were demolished a few days ago. Dr Kiran Ma’am was moved to tears, as I could hear, upon mentioning about the plight of these families, describing how many of them suddenly found themselves homeless, with the education of school and college-going children hanging in the balance, and without certainty regarding basic needs such as food and shelter.
Although Asha’s family is making every effort to support those affected, it is challenging task, as many people have left the area. While I am located thousands of miles away from Delhi, I feel I can make a modest contribution to Asha’s efforts and dedicate my scholarship award to the people suffering in Delhi. As someone who has lived in slums my entire life, I understand the difficulties and hardships we face under such circumstances. Additionally, this act aligns with Asha values, which include paying it forward and possessing feelings of generosity and gratitude towards everyone.
Lastly, I encourage all the members and supporters of the Asha family to consider contributing to support Asha’s efforts in aiding the riverbed community. Your contribution would be deeply appreciated.
Thank you,
Tushar
Hello everyone,
I hope this message finds you all well. I am writing today to share some exciting news, along with a message and an appeal related to a tragedy that has recently affected families living in the River Bed slum of Delhi.
As a postgraduate student at Sydney University, I am currently residing at one of its residential colleges, St Paul’s College. The centrepiece of academic life at this college is the weekly Formal Dinner and the semesterly Academic Dinner. During a recent Academic Dinner, I was honoured to receive the college’s most prestigious Amy Louise Hart Scholarship in recognition of my academic performance in previous semesters. This scholarship commemorates the long-serving Matron of St Paul’s College, Amy Louise Hart.
I wish to acknowledge that I would not have been able to come so far and achieve this accomplishment without the personal mentoring, love, and care of my mentor, Dr Kiran Ma’am. Whenever I face challenges or receive opportunities, I always turn to her for guidance and support. Upon learning of my recent achievement, I was thrilled to share the news with ma’am, who promptly extended her congratulations by calling me. I could hear the same joy and excitement in her wishes as I felt upon receiving the award.
As I had seen a post regarding riverbed communities, during our conversation, I expressed my desire to donate the money received as part of this award to the Asha family for aiding families whose homes were demolished a few days ago. Dr Kiran Ma’am was moved to tears, as I could hear, upon mentioning about the plight of these families, describing how many of them suddenly found themselves homeless, with the education of school and college-going children hanging in the balance, and without certainty regarding basic needs such as food and shelter.
Although Asha’s family is making every effort to support those affected, it is challenging task, as many people have left the area. While I am located thousands of miles away from Delhi, I feel I can make a modest contribution to Asha’s efforts and dedicate my scholarship award to the people suffering in Delhi. As someone who has lived in slums my entire life, I understand the difficulties and hardships we face under such circumstances. Additionally, this act aligns with Asha values, which include paying it forward and possessing feelings of generosity and gratitude towards everyone.
Lastly, I encourage all the members and supporters of the Asha family to consider contributing to support Asha’s efforts in aiding the riverbed community. Your contribution would be deeply appreciated.
Thank you,
Tushar
Asha’s emergency intervention for the demolition affected Riverbed Community.
Dear friends,
Today, we seek your urgent support to reach out to the much-sorrowed slum community in Yamuna Riverbed, East Delhi.
They were recovering from the recent flood crisis when their homes were demolished a few days ago; a bulldozer bulldozed the families’ homes mercilessly. They lost whatever little they had. Also, unexpected rains during these mishaps made their life worse.
They have lost the homes they had been living in for over 25 years and are now scattered everywhere, desperately trying to find shelter. Children, women and the elderly are the most affected.
Asha is trying to provide relief, distributing groceries and tarpaulin sheets and showing emotional support to those affected. Clinics are being held to take care of their health needs.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this tragedy. Your donation will help provide shelter, food, and other basic needs to those who have lost everything.
Please donate now – https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 and share this post with your friends and family to spread the word.
Thank you for your generosity and support.
Today, we seek your urgent support to reach out to the much-sorrowed slum community in Yamuna Riverbed, East Delhi.
They were recovering from the recent flood crisis when their homes were demolished a few days ago; a bulldozer bulldozed the families’ homes mercilessly. They lost whatever little they had. Also, unexpected rains during these mishaps made their life worse.
They have lost the homes they had been living in for over 25 years and are now scattered everywhere, desperately trying to find shelter. Children, women and the elderly are the most affected.
Asha is trying to provide relief, distributing groceries and tarpaulin sheets and showing emotional support to those affected. Clinics are being held to take care of their health needs.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this tragedy. Your donation will help provide shelter, food, and other basic needs to those who have lost everything.
Please donate now – https://bit.ly/2tFvdy3 and share this post with your friends and family to spread the word.
Thank you for your generosity and support.
Macquarie Official visits Kalkaji Slum Community.
On 10th March 2023, Pawan Gupta, Divisional Director and Head of Operations, Macquarie Gurugram, visited Asha’s Kalkaji centre. After the formal welcome, he was briefed on Asha’s Higher Education Programme before interacting with the undergraduate students. He intently listened to their life’s journey, problems and challenges faced in their academic pursuit, Asha’s support and future roadmap. He advised them to build their careers based on aptitude, knowledge, information, systems and structure.
He also encouraged them to face each day with a new perspective and step out of their comfort zone. Pawan shared his inspiring journey from a Business Administration Graduate and Chartered Accountant to setting up Robotics systems in the Macquarie Finance team and eventually becoming the Head of Operations. The students were enthralled and inspired by his story. Later, Pawan interacted with the Mahila Mandal ladies and listened to their stories of empowerment and transformation.
He was briefed on Asha’s “Love and Lunch” programme for the elderly and appreciated the unique facets of Asha’s programme and how it is an expression of the Celebration of Life after conquering the challenges. Next, he visited the IT Lab and the Library and said these are critical determinants in shaping the defining moments of a student’s career journey. Finally, after a brief understanding of the Healthcare programme, he went for a community visit to have a first-hand experience of a slum resident’s life. He was impressed with what he saw and appreciated Asha’s Model of Development and its visible impact. He expressed his desire to interact more with the Asha team and increase his involvement in the project.
He also encouraged them to face each day with a new perspective and step out of their comfort zone. Pawan shared his inspiring journey from a Business Administration Graduate and Chartered Accountant to setting up Robotics systems in the Macquarie Finance team and eventually becoming the Head of Operations. The students were enthralled and inspired by his story. Later, Pawan interacted with the Mahila Mandal ladies and listened to their stories of empowerment and transformation.
He was briefed on Asha’s “Love and Lunch” programme for the elderly and appreciated the unique facets of Asha’s programme and how it is an expression of the Celebration of Life after conquering the challenges. Next, he visited the IT Lab and the Library and said these are critical determinants in shaping the defining moments of a student’s career journey. Finally, after a brief understanding of the Healthcare programme, he went for a community visit to have a first-hand experience of a slum resident’s life. He was impressed with what he saw and appreciated Asha’s Model of Development and its visible impact. He expressed his desire to interact more with the Asha team and increase his involvement in the project.
Abhishek’s Journey of Education, highlighted in India-Australia Educational Partnership
The Australian High Commission organised a Gala dinner reception to celebrate Australia and India’s ever-growing partnership in Education and research in the presence of Hon. Jason Clare, MP, Australian Minister of Education, on 2nd March 2023. In attendance were Mr Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education – Government of India, fifteen to twenty Vice Chancellors of top Universities viz, Sydney, Melbourne, Queensland, Deakin, New South Wales, Western Australia, ANU to name few and representatives of universities of India and other eminent dignitaries.
Ms Lisa Singh, CEO-Australia India Institute, introduced Asha student Abhishek. Abhishek narrated his transformation journey from the slums of Delhi to the prestigious University of Sydney to pursue Masters in Management- CEMS with a full scholarship with Asha’s support and how it helped to change his destiny by laying the foundation of his professional career. The Education he received has been instrumental in driving his life’s progress and paved the way for changing the face of his community.
Minister Clare started his speech by mentioning that students like Abhishek are one reason for him being the Minister of Education. He said that Education provides the platform for transforming and changing people’s lives, especially youth. He also mentioned that Abhishek’s learning in Australia hopefully would help him in the development of his community. In his speech, the Minister also mentioned organisations like Asha and Salam Balak Trust and how they helped the youth and children from marginalised society to progress and prosper through the power of Education.
Abhishek was privileged to sit at the same table with Hon. Minister Clare and Hon. Minister Pradhan during the event.
Professor Mark Scott- Vice Chancellor of the University of Sydney, who was also present at the event, expressed his delight in the wonderful partnership with Asha and hoped to strengthen it in the coming years.
Asha would like to thank the Australian High Commission and Minister Clare for providing opportunity to Abhishek to share his life’s journey in presence of such an august gathering.
Ms Lisa Singh, CEO-Australia India Institute, introduced Asha student Abhishek. Abhishek narrated his transformation journey from the slums of Delhi to the prestigious University of Sydney to pursue Masters in Management- CEMS with a full scholarship with Asha’s support and how it helped to change his destiny by laying the foundation of his professional career. The Education he received has been instrumental in driving his life’s progress and paved the way for changing the face of his community.
Minister Clare started his speech by mentioning that students like Abhishek are one reason for him being the Minister of Education. He said that Education provides the platform for transforming and changing people’s lives, especially youth. He also mentioned that Abhishek’s learning in Australia hopefully would help him in the development of his community. In his speech, the Minister also mentioned organisations like Asha and Salam Balak Trust and how they helped the youth and children from marginalised society to progress and prosper through the power of Education.
Abhishek was privileged to sit at the same table with Hon. Minister Clare and Hon. Minister Pradhan during the event.
Professor Mark Scott- Vice Chancellor of the University of Sydney, who was also present at the event, expressed his delight in the wonderful partnership with Asha and hoped to strengthen it in the coming years.
Asha would like to thank the Australian High Commission and Minister Clare for providing opportunity to Abhishek to share his life’s journey in presence of such an august gathering.
Dunclug College visits at Asha Kusumpur Pahari Slum Community
We were delighted to have eleven-member team from Dunclug college Northern Ireland, visit Asha Kusumpur Pahari Slum Community for a week. The students and the children enjoyed every moment of their presence with fun-filled infotainment activities and games.
St Stephen’s team visits at Asha Seelampur Slum Community.
We were delighted to have ten-member team from St Stephen’s, Twickenham, visit Asha Seelampur Slum Community for a week. The students and the children enjoyed every moment of their presence with fun-filled infotainment activities and games.
Thank you, St Stephen’s team.
Thank you, St Stephen’s team.
Asha students Tushar, Mohini and Sumit: visible examples of Paying it Forward.
As Tushar, Mohini and Sumit(L-R) are getting ready to leave for Australia, they are going around all the Asha communities meeting hundreds of students. Inspiring them with their stories, encouraging them with their words, lifting their spirits, raising their ambitions and aspirations, being examples of Paying it Forward. They will be spending the entire month of January visiting every Asha community. The vision will gain more momentum and excitement, and so many more lives will be transformed. It’s all possible because of your partnership in the love for the vision and your ever present support. So, thank you.
Asha Mahila Mandal ensures permanent sewage facilities at Chanderpuri Slum.
This is a great example of how women’s empowerment can lead to positive and transformative change in a community. The residents of the chanderpuri slum community were facing a lot of challenges due to sewage manhole overflowing and the dirty water reaching the small shanties of the slum dwellers. The slum residents were finding it difficult to walk or stay in the shanties as the surroundings and their shanties were filled with dirty water leaking from the manhole. With the collective efforts and support by the Asha team, Asha’s Mahila Mandal members wrote an application and visited the officials of Delhi Municipal Cooperation and Ward Councillors to get the sewage manhole cleaned up and repaired. After three to four days of continuous efforts, the authorities cleaned the manhole, stopping the water leakage. As they knew the government’s intervention would take time, the Mahila Mandal group collected their personal money and repaired the upper part of the manhole. To find a permanent solution, they have submitted the petitions to the authorities, and Mahila Mandal ladies are doing repeated follow-up visits. The persistent efforts and patient follow-up have resulted in a positive outcome, and the authorities have assured them that the permanent sewage system will be constructed very soon.
We are proud of the determination and courage these women have displayed.
We are proud of the determination and courage these women have displayed.
Methodist College Belfast hosted an interview with Mr. Freddy and Shiv Kumar.
Asha would like to thank Methodist College Belfast for extending a warm and cordial welcome to Mr Freddy Martin and Shiv Kumar in December 2022. The visit also included an interview wherein Mr Martin spoke about the work of Asha and about the fruitful relationship with the Methodist College over the years, and it’s impact on the lives of so many young students and community residents across Asha Kalkaji Slum.
Asha expresses deep gratitude to the Methodist College for their commitment and partnership.
Here is the link for the interview: bit.ly/3kx3v42
Asha expresses deep gratitude to the Methodist College for their commitment and partnership.
Here is the link for the interview: bit.ly/3kx3v42
Asha student Sumit from Tigri Slum Community reaches the University of Sydney.
Asha student Sumit from Tigri slum colony reaches Sydney University today!
He will begin a Masters in Public Policy and Tushar who is already there will be mentoring him.
What a wonderful example of Paying it Forward leading to the numbers increasing year on year!
He will begin a Masters in Public Policy and Tushar who is already there will be mentoring him.
What a wonderful example of Paying it Forward leading to the numbers increasing year on year!
Mohini is on her way to pursue her dreams at the prestigious University of Queensland, Australia.
This is the wonderful story of Asha slum student Mohini in her own words. She is on her way to Brisbane to do her Masters at the University of Queensland.
https://youtu.be/PHDPTW0M4g8
https://youtu.be/PHDPTW0M4g8
Dr Kiran hosts New Year Lunch for the elderly, spreading Hope and Joy
Hello folks, as I sat and reflected on how I would like to ring in the New Year, I decided to invite some of the poorest and most abandoned elderly from Asha for a sumptuous lunch today. And what a wonderful time we had. There were all kinds, those who had no one in the whole world, those who were paralyzed, some disabled, others who were cancer survivors, Hindus, Muslims, all castes, colors and regions. All destitute and living in great poverty.
Each one was welcomed with a loving embrace and escorted by the Asha warriors. Freddy and I began serving them, followed by the other Asha team members.
The menu was Chicken Curry, Dal Makhni, Palak Paneer, Mattar Paneer, Jeera Rice, Poori, papadom and Raita. This was followed by Gajar Halwa, Gulab Jamun and Ice Cream.
They gave us so many wonderful blessings as they prepared to leave at the end of a beautiful afternoon together. We draped beautiful and warm shawls around them as a mark of respect, after which everyone left, abounding with a spirit of joy and feeling greatly loved.
Thanks to each one of you for making this possible through your kindness and generosity. Happy New Year!
Each one was welcomed with a loving embrace and escorted by the Asha warriors. Freddy and I began serving them, followed by the other Asha team members.
The menu was Chicken Curry, Dal Makhni, Palak Paneer, Mattar Paneer, Jeera Rice, Poori, papadom and Raita. This was followed by Gajar Halwa, Gulab Jamun and Ice Cream.
They gave us so many wonderful blessings as they prepared to leave at the end of a beautiful afternoon together. We draped beautiful and warm shawls around them as a mark of respect, after which everyone left, abounding with a spirit of joy and feeling greatly loved.
Thanks to each one of you for making this possible through your kindness and generosity. Happy New Year!
Dr Kiran hosts Dinner for Asha students.
Dinner with some of my remarkable mentees last night. Here are some pictures with a brief description
L-R
Mohini: leaving for Australia in Feb 2023. Masters in Development Studies University of Queensland
Tushar: Doing a Masters in International Relations University of Sydney
Dilip: Working as HR Officer in Australian Mining firm Rio Tinto and married to the beautiful Priyanka
Sumit: Leaving in Feb 2023. Masters in Public Policy, University of Sydney
Usha: Journalist at Hindustan Times and married to Rahul
Abhishek: Completed his Masters in Management from University of Sydney and now working for an European Telecommunications Company in Delhi
Priyanka: Works at Barclays Bank in Delhi, married to Vivek, and has bought a beautiful house in Delhi.
Each one has seen poverty and destitution growing up. Great are the wonders of love, opportunity, encouragement and hope.
L-R
Mohini: leaving for Australia in Feb 2023. Masters in Development Studies University of Queensland
Tushar: Doing a Masters in International Relations University of Sydney
Dilip: Working as HR Officer in Australian Mining firm Rio Tinto and married to the beautiful Priyanka
Sumit: Leaving in Feb 2023. Masters in Public Policy, University of Sydney
Usha: Journalist at Hindustan Times and married to Rahul
Abhishek: Completed his Masters in Management from University of Sydney and now working for an European Telecommunications Company in Delhi
Priyanka: Works at Barclays Bank in Delhi, married to Vivek, and has bought a beautiful house in Delhi.
Each one has seen poverty and destitution growing up. Great are the wonders of love, opportunity, encouragement and hope.
Dr Kiran spends a wonderful time with Asha Students Studying and being prepared to go to Australia.
Hello everyone, I had a most wonderful time yesterday afternoon with all those who are either in Australia and visiting India or who will be leaving for Australia. What a bright and highly motivated group of young people.
Some of these students are on track to go in mid 2023 and early 2024.
L-R : Juhi: will go for a Masters in Nursing in 2024.
Sunny: will go for a Masters in Public Policy in mid 2023.
Fazia: will go for a Masters (undecided which) in 2024
Mohini: leaving in Feb 2023
Tushar: already at University of Sydney doing a Masters in International Relations
Tripti: will go in 2024. Masters undecided
Loknathan: yet to decide whether he would like to go.
Azmat: will go in 2024. Masters undecided
Chris Elstoft, all IELTS teachers, and each one who has played a role in their lives, heartfelt thanks.
Some of these students are on track to go in mid 2023 and early 2024.
L-R : Juhi: will go for a Masters in Nursing in 2024.
Sunny: will go for a Masters in Public Policy in mid 2023.
Fazia: will go for a Masters (undecided which) in 2024
Mohini: leaving in Feb 2023
Tushar: already at University of Sydney doing a Masters in International Relations
Tripti: will go in 2024. Masters undecided
Loknathan: yet to decide whether he would like to go.
Azmat: will go in 2024. Masters undecided
Chris Elstoft, all IELTS teachers, and each one who has played a role in their lives, heartfelt thanks.
Proud Moment for Asha: Amritesh graduates from the University of Queensland- School of Economics.
Yesterday was another exciting and proud moment for the entire Asha global family as Amritesh, an Asha student from the Kusumpur Pahari Slum community, received his Masters degree yesterday from Chancellor Peter Varghese, University of Queensland. Amritesh joined the two-year International Economics and Finance course at the UQ School of Economics in 2021, becoming the first recipient of the UQ-India Equity Postgraduate Coursework Scholarship for students from the slum communities of New Delhi, India.
The graduation ceremony was live-streamed and was watched by hundreds of Asha students in different slum communities. All were overloaded with great pride and happiness as they cheered Amritesh with loud applause, seeing him realise his dream come true.
Our deepest thanks to Chancellor Peter Varghese, Asha’s wonderful friend and great supporter, his team at UQ, and all others who have been instrumental in opening doors with the opportunity to fulfil his international education dream.
Congratulations, Amritesh! Go on to achieve many more great things in life.
The graduation ceremony was live-streamed and was watched by hundreds of Asha students in different slum communities. All were overloaded with great pride and happiness as they cheered Amritesh with loud applause, seeing him realise his dream come true.
Our deepest thanks to Chancellor Peter Varghese, Asha’s wonderful friend and great supporter, his team at UQ, and all others who have been instrumental in opening doors with the opportunity to fulfil his international education dream.
Congratulations, Amritesh! Go on to achieve many more great things in life.
Macquarie Team conducted Interactive Activities and Celebrated Christmas with Children at the Zakhira Slum Community
As part of their employee volunteering session, Asha ‘s long term partner Macquarie Global Services led by Smriti Shukla and Shweta from Assets Management (MAM) team visited the Asha centre in Zakhira Slum Community where they were welcomed by the Asha staff and Children association (Bal Mandal) members. It was a session of interactive educational and value-based activities with the children. The children learnt moral values, adopting good habits, benefits of companionship, and how to become a good human being.
After the session, the Macquarie team dressed up as Santa and distributed chocolates and gifts among children and cut the Christmas cake. The children really enjoyed the activities in a fun learning mode.
After the session, the Macquarie team dressed up as Santa and distributed chocolates and gifts among children and cut the Christmas cake. The children really enjoyed the activities in a fun learning mode.
Deepak from Yamuna Riverbed Slum battles life’s challenges to enter Delhi University
Asha is proud of Deepak, an 18 year old boy from the flood-prone Yamuna Riverbed slum in East Delhi, home of one of the most vulnerable and deprived slum communities, who cleared the recent Central University Entrance Test (CUET) and secured admission for B. Com Honours at the prestigious University of Delhi.
Deepak’s family migrated from Bihar to the riverbed slum 15 years ago. He lost his father at a young age. His mother runs a small grocery shop to look after him and his five siblings.
Deepak fought life’s challenges in the riverbed, facing the recent catastrophic floods where his family, like many others, lost their home and little belongings and were forced to seek refuge on the nearby highway for more than two months. It was when he was preparing for his final school leaving exams and the CUET. The Asha team immediately reached food, bedding, and clothing for his family as they were fighting one of the worst survival crises of their lives. During this time of catastrophe and despair, his strong will to change his destiny and Asha’s support was the only weapon to combat the challenges. He continued his studies at the Asha Resource Center. Asha’s team provided him with academic and motivational support to prepare for the tough exams, helped him with the college admission process and supported him through scholarships to take care of his college fees and other expenses, which enabled him to secure college admission.
Dear Deepak, continue your hard work and efforts to come out with flying colours!
Deepak’s family migrated from Bihar to the riverbed slum 15 years ago. He lost his father at a young age. His mother runs a small grocery shop to look after him and his five siblings.
Deepak fought life’s challenges in the riverbed, facing the recent catastrophic floods where his family, like many others, lost their home and little belongings and were forced to seek refuge on the nearby highway for more than two months. It was when he was preparing for his final school leaving exams and the CUET. The Asha team immediately reached food, bedding, and clothing for his family as they were fighting one of the worst survival crises of their lives. During this time of catastrophe and despair, his strong will to change his destiny and Asha’s support was the only weapon to combat the challenges. He continued his studies at the Asha Resource Center. Asha’s team provided him with academic and motivational support to prepare for the tough exams, helped him with the college admission process and supported him through scholarships to take care of his college fees and other expenses, which enabled him to secure college admission.
Dear Deepak, continue your hard work and efforts to come out with flying colours!
Sharing Joy and Happiness through the Power of Touch across Asha Slum Communities
Hi everyone, as I saw the wonderful pictures of people in the Asha communities lovingly embracing one another, I thought I’d share something of the Power of Touch in our lives.
Touch is a fundamental necessity, just as the air we breathe. We first experience the world through touch, and we cannot survive without it.
Touch stimuli change the biochemistry of our brains in a dramatic and positive manner. Touch makes us feel secure, close, gives us comfort, joy and a deep connection that sometimes cannot be expressed in words. Touch strengthens our immune system, and we live longer and healthier lives. Touch keeps us emotionally balanced. A gentle caress can comfort, calm, and lower heart rate. It increases oxytocin that stimulates trust, endorphins that bring us happiness, and reduces the levels of cortisol, thereby reducing stress.
Lonely people do not experience touch. In the absence of touch, we suffer from anxiety, depression and addiction because our brains are looking for substitutes in the absence of touch. The good news is that our sense of touch can return any time, specially towards the end of life.
Touch gives us great happiness all through our lives, so let us keep walking on the road of hugs, caresses and loving embraces always.
Touch is a fundamental necessity, just as the air we breathe. We first experience the world through touch, and we cannot survive without it.
Touch stimuli change the biochemistry of our brains in a dramatic and positive manner. Touch makes us feel secure, close, gives us comfort, joy and a deep connection that sometimes cannot be expressed in words. Touch strengthens our immune system, and we live longer and healthier lives. Touch keeps us emotionally balanced. A gentle caress can comfort, calm, and lower heart rate. It increases oxytocin that stimulates trust, endorphins that bring us happiness, and reduces the levels of cortisol, thereby reducing stress.
Lonely people do not experience touch. In the absence of touch, we suffer from anxiety, depression and addiction because our brains are looking for substitutes in the absence of touch. The good news is that our sense of touch can return any time, specially towards the end of life.
Touch gives us great happiness all through our lives, so let us keep walking on the road of hugs, caresses and loving embraces always.
Macquarie Team facilitates a workshop on Nutrition, Hygiene and Empowerment in Mayapuri Slum
A three-member team, Ms Smriti, Ms Shweta and Ms Shivani from Macquarie Global Services Pvt Ltd. Gurugram, Asha’s long-time supporter, visited the Mayapuri Slum community on 22nd November 2022. After receiving a warm welcome from the Asha team and student ambassadors, the team observed and appreciated the Love & Lunch Geriatric feeding programme for the abandoned elderlies in the slums.
The team then conducted an interactive workshop for the ladies’ group, mainly discussing nutrition, personal hygiene, saving habits, gender equality, and welfare schemes for women. The team appreciated the women’s stories of transformation and their active roles in Asha’s social and community welfare programmes. The visit ended with a community visit where the team had a first-hand experience of the life of slum residents near the railway track
Thank you, Team Macquarie, for your volunteer engagement and continued support in Asha’s efforts towards transforming the lives of people in Delhi slums.
The team then conducted an interactive workshop for the ladies’ group, mainly discussing nutrition, personal hygiene, saving habits, gender equality, and welfare schemes for women. The team appreciated the women’s stories of transformation and their active roles in Asha’s social and community welfare programmes. The visit ended with a community visit where the team had a first-hand experience of the life of slum residents near the railway track
Thank you, Team Macquarie, for your volunteer engagement and continued support in Asha’s efforts towards transforming the lives of people in Delhi slums.
Dr Saffron Homayoun, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, visited Dr Ambedkar Basti slum community
Dr Saffron Homayoun, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist from the US, paid a visit to Asha on 21st November 2022. After a brief orientation at the Head Office on Asha’s interventions for the slum dwellers, she went to Dr Ambedkar Basti.
Firstly, she saw the Love and lunch programme, where she interacted with the elderlies and appreciated how Asha looks after them with Love, care and compassion. She then interacted with Asha warriors and Mahila Mandal/ladies’ group. The ladies narrated their stories of transformation with Asha’s support.
It was followed by an interactive workshop with the Mahila Mandal ladies and Asha team on the Importance of Mental Health, where she discussed topics like depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. This was followed by QA session and Dr. Homayoun discussed various resolution mechanisms to cope up with mental health challenges. She concluded the session stressing the need to de-stigmatize mental health issues, in an environment of transparency and seek professional advice.
Firstly, she saw the Love and lunch programme, where she interacted with the elderlies and appreciated how Asha looks after them with Love, care and compassion. She then interacted with Asha warriors and Mahila Mandal/ladies’ group. The ladies narrated their stories of transformation with Asha’s support.
It was followed by an interactive workshop with the Mahila Mandal ladies and Asha team on the Importance of Mental Health, where she discussed topics like depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. This was followed by QA session and Dr. Homayoun discussed various resolution mechanisms to cope up with mental health challenges. She concluded the session stressing the need to de-stigmatize mental health issues, in an environment of transparency and seek professional advice.
Vitamin Angels Team Visited the Kusumpur Pahari Slum Community
A Five Member Team from Vitamin Angels, which included Alice Jetkin, Simran Sachdev, Gurupratap Randhawa, Animesh, and Osama Salman, visited the Asha on 16th November’2022. After the initial interaction with the Asha program team at the head office, where they were briefed on Asha’s journey of transforming lives in Delhi slums, they visited Asha’s Kusumpur slum community. The Asha senior Nurse practitioner and other Team members warmly welcomed the Team. The Vitamin Angels Team first saw Asha’s ‘Love and Lunch’ Programme and interacted with elderlies. They were impressed with the dedication of the Asha team towards the elderlies who are abandoned by their families. They also interacted with the college students and Asha Ambassadors and heard about their journey with Asha.
The Team observed the well-baby clinic for under-five children conducted by the Senior Nurse practitioner, where she gave the children deworming and Vitamin A supplements.
The Team also undertook a community visit where they had first-hand experience of the life of slum dwellers. Thank you, Vitamin Angels Team, for visiting Asha.
The Team observed the well-baby clinic for under-five children conducted by the Senior Nurse practitioner, where she gave the children deworming and Vitamin A supplements.
The Team also undertook a community visit where they had first-hand experience of the life of slum dwellers. Thank you, Vitamin Angels Team, for visiting Asha.
Freddy Martin’s Visit to UK
Hello folks, Freddy is on an Asha trip, traveling all over the UK. It’s just wonderful to see the reception he is receiving everywhere he goes, and the hard work all Asha supporters have put in to organize meetings all over the country. He is much loved, and his passion and enthusiasm are greater than ever, as he speaks about the work of Asha in so many different settings. Thank you to Friends of Asha GB for your friendship and your sharing of the vision over so many years.
A meeting organized by David and Helen Finch at Winchester. Food was cooked from Asha cookbook Hope and Spice. Copies of the book were sold. Thank you David and Helen for hosting this gathering in beautiful Winchester
Sunny’s video shown and Freddy speaking at a Prestigious public funded school of great repute, Gryphon School in Dorset.
Nigel an Asha supporter and trustee of the Sherborne area school trust who has worked so very hard to foster and strengthen the relationship with Gryphon. Thank you, Nigel, for your wonderful work. You have impacted the lives of young people in both countries.
Freddy and Sunny at the famous private Sherborne Girls school. The relationship was formed by Nigel again. Thank you, Nigel, for your work.
Freddy with the Principal of Sherborne Girls School Mrs. Mackintosh. She has been a wonderful supporter of Asha
A meeting organized by David and Helen Finch at Winchester. Food was cooked from Asha cookbook Hope and Spice. Copies of the book were sold. Thank you David and Helen for hosting this gathering in beautiful Winchester
Sunny’s video shown and Freddy speaking at a Prestigious public funded school of great repute, Gryphon School in Dorset.
Nigel an Asha supporter and trustee of the Sherborne area school trust who has worked so very hard to foster and strengthen the relationship with Gryphon. Thank you, Nigel, for your wonderful work. You have impacted the lives of young people in both countries.
Freddy and Sunny at the famous private Sherborne Girls school. The relationship was formed by Nigel again. Thank you, Nigel, for your work.
Freddy with the Principal of Sherborne Girls School Mrs. Mackintosh. She has been a wonderful supporter of Asha
Women in Delhi Slums: the weakest link becoming the strongest Change Agents
Here are some of the strongest Asha women leaders from the Delhi Slums who were once the shyest, less confident, and less educated, becoming change agents to bring a positive transformation in the slum communities. These Asha Mahila Mandal women are the best evidence to prove how the empowerment of people is crucial to bring about desired changes in community development.
Asha’s Empowerment programs in the urban slums of Delhi focus on bringing the people in the slums to work together to find solutions to various common issues. The people in the slums are one of the least bothered populations in all ways, be it in the case of having basic infrastructure, a good education, access to financial resources, land rights and many more. They are always vulnerable to diseases, discrimination, and poverty. Asha began its development interventions in the slums 33 years ago by setting up health clinics to ensure them with basic health facilities. Realising the importance of community mobilisation as a major tool to help the slum residents to fight for their basic rights, Asha embarked on an empowerment process, where the women in the target slums were trained and capacitated by forming Women’s Associations (Mahila Mandals) where they were taught to conduct group meetings and discuss different issues faced by the people in the slums. As an initial step, the Asha team visited the women door to door to form the women’s groups in each target slum. They were hesitant even to come out of their tiny shanties, fearing their husbands or elders. The Asha team continued their tireless efforts through the years, bringing out their leadership qualities. Gradually, the women became the strong voice for their communities. They gained the courage to visit different offices and submit applications for various community needs. Their efforts are bringing positive results: most slums have better roads and drains, drinking water connections, electricity, and better toilet facilities, and residents are with bank accounts and getting different social welfare schemes.
They are not afraid to visit a police station or help women and girls facing domestic violence or sexual assault to report the issues to the concerned authorities. The members of the Mahila Mandal play a crucial role in ensuring that the kids in the slums attend schools regularly. The Asha Community Health Volunteers are all women selected from the Mahila Mandals of respective slum communities. They regularly monitor the health of communities, particularly pregnant women, children under five, the elderly and tuberculosis (TB) patients and support the Asha Health Team to reach out to the needy in the slums. The services of Mahila members in the slums are countless and inspiring.
Asha’s Empowerment programs in the urban slums of Delhi focus on bringing the people in the slums to work together to find solutions to various common issues. The people in the slums are one of the least bothered populations in all ways, be it in the case of having basic infrastructure, a good education, access to financial resources, land rights and many more. They are always vulnerable to diseases, discrimination, and poverty. Asha began its development interventions in the slums 33 years ago by setting up health clinics to ensure them with basic health facilities. Realising the importance of community mobilisation as a major tool to help the slum residents to fight for their basic rights, Asha embarked on an empowerment process, where the women in the target slums were trained and capacitated by forming Women’s Associations (Mahila Mandals) where they were taught to conduct group meetings and discuss different issues faced by the people in the slums. As an initial step, the Asha team visited the women door to door to form the women’s groups in each target slum. They were hesitant even to come out of their tiny shanties, fearing their husbands or elders. The Asha team continued their tireless efforts through the years, bringing out their leadership qualities. Gradually, the women became the strong voice for their communities. They gained the courage to visit different offices and submit applications for various community needs. Their efforts are bringing positive results: most slums have better roads and drains, drinking water connections, electricity, and better toilet facilities, and residents are with bank accounts and getting different social welfare schemes.
They are not afraid to visit a police station or help women and girls facing domestic violence or sexual assault to report the issues to the concerned authorities. The members of the Mahila Mandal play a crucial role in ensuring that the kids in the slums attend schools regularly. The Asha Community Health Volunteers are all women selected from the Mahila Mandals of respective slum communities. They regularly monitor the health of communities, particularly pregnant women, children under five, the elderly and tuberculosis (TB) patients and support the Asha Health Team to reach out to the needy in the slums. The services of Mahila members in the slums are countless and inspiring.
Dr Kiran Practising Servanthood in Leadership with the Elderlies from Asha’s Dr Ambedkar Basti slum community
Hello folks, I had a light bulb moment as I sat one afternoon reflecting on the elderly and the untouchables in the slums who have suffered so much all their lives. Asha has been a place where we have had all manner of wonderful friends and visitors over the past many years. We have shared hospitality with our Indian and global friends, with ministers and ambassadors, with our Asha family, our young Asha students and warriors, and so many others.
I suddenly felt how wonderful it would be if I could invite the elderly from an Asha community made up of untouchables (Dalits) for a banquet at my home.
Last week, I had the great joy of receiving them with much love and warmth. Some were severely disabled; others were too old to work and had to beg because their children had abandoned them. Some told me that their children ate before their eyes while they just looked on. My team and I served them a delicious meal made up of numerous dishes that they enjoyed thoroughly.
Thereafter Freddy and I washed the feet of a couple, while other team members followed. This ceremony was marked by silence, candles, and feeling the presence of love and tenderness. In the end, they gave us many blessings, we embraced each other, and they made their way home. It was truly an evening to remember. I decided we would have many more such meals at our home, inviting and honoring the very poorest in our communities with much love. Acts that bring alive the fraternity of our common humanity purify our hearts, break down all barriers, and keep us humble while lifting up those who are weak.
I suddenly felt how wonderful it would be if I could invite the elderly from an Asha community made up of untouchables (Dalits) for a banquet at my home.
Last week, I had the great joy of receiving them with much love and warmth. Some were severely disabled; others were too old to work and had to beg because their children had abandoned them. Some told me that their children ate before their eyes while they just looked on. My team and I served them a delicious meal made up of numerous dishes that they enjoyed thoroughly.
Thereafter Freddy and I washed the feet of a couple, while other team members followed. This ceremony was marked by silence, candles, and feeling the presence of love and tenderness. In the end, they gave us many blessings, we embraced each other, and they made their way home. It was truly an evening to remember. I decided we would have many more such meals at our home, inviting and honoring the very poorest in our communities with much love. Acts that bring alive the fraternity of our common humanity purify our hearts, break down all barriers, and keep us humble while lifting up those who are weak.
Children Practicing Values-The Asha Way of Life
Asha Values lies at the core of its thematic interventions and acts as a critical pivot for all its programme endeavours.
The children of Bal Mandal begins their journey at Asha learning life skills embedded with values such as joy, gratitude, affirmation, generosity, power of touch, compassion etc. which builds the roadmap for their growth and development and nurtures their human qualities. The Asha family practices different Asha values like washing the feet of the elderly, hugging each other to express joy and happiness, showing generosity by feeding the needy, practicing care and compassion by providing daily use items to the abandoned elderly, sharing meals, celebrating festivals, tying gratitude band to one another and many other activities.
The Asha team strives explicitly to teach young children in the slums the importance of imbibing and practising different life values in their daily lives. The children are encouraged to affirm each other, emphasizing good qualities of one another and generate vibrant energy through the power of touch. The Environment is filled with positivity and hope.
The children of Bal Mandal begins their journey at Asha learning life skills embedded with values such as joy, gratitude, affirmation, generosity, power of touch, compassion etc. which builds the roadmap for their growth and development and nurtures their human qualities. The Asha family practices different Asha values like washing the feet of the elderly, hugging each other to express joy and happiness, showing generosity by feeding the needy, practicing care and compassion by providing daily use items to the abandoned elderly, sharing meals, celebrating festivals, tying gratitude band to one another and many other activities.
The Asha team strives explicitly to teach young children in the slums the importance of imbibing and practising different life values in their daily lives. The children are encouraged to affirm each other, emphasizing good qualities of one another and generate vibrant energy through the power of touch. The Environment is filled with positivity and hope.
Asha Student Tushar receives the University of Sydney’s Awards on Postgraduate Student Leader of the Year 2022 and Outstanding Impact 2022.
Here’s some wonderful news. Asha student Tushar has just received 2 awards from Sydney University. He is doing his Masters in International Relations.
Postgraduate Student Leader of the Year 2022
Outstanding Impact 2022.
Way to go Tushar! We are so proud of you.
Postgraduate Student Leader of the Year 2022
Outstanding Impact 2022.
Way to go Tushar! We are so proud of you.
Dr David Finch, Chair of Friends of Asha GB, washes the feet of 80 year old Shyam Raj at his home.
Dr David Finch, Chair of Friends of Asha GB washed the feet of 80 year old Shyam Raj at his home. He lives alone, having been abandoned by his children. He is a patient of Hypertension and is looked after by Asha. An image that speaks a thousand words
Julianna, Asha volunteer from Boston, tenderly Washes the feet of an Elderly Woman at her Small Shanty in Zakhira Slum Community
20 year old Asha volunteer from Boston, Julianna, washes the feet of Shiela, an elderly woman living with her husband, with no one to care for them. Their children have abandoned them. Sheela is paralyzed in her Rt arm and Rt leg. The warriors come to her home daily and feed her with a nutritious meal as she is unable to walk to the Centre. What a beautiful sight to see. A young girl being such a fine example
The Elderlies in the Slums experience the Healing Power of Love at Asha Centers.
Desolation is defined as the soul being disturbed, being agitated, without hope, without love, tepid, sad. May we learn to read desolation and the inner depth of sadness in a person’s soul. And then may we give them abundant love and may the pain in their souls be relieved. May they experience inner fulfillment and inner joy.
Asha Students Celebrate Diwali with friends of Asha GB
Here are the kids that are being prepared to go to Australia celebrated Diwali with us. Some of the Governing Board members of FOA GB are also with us, which is wonderful. One would find it hard to imagine where they lived, seeing them like this.
The next day GB members visited some of them in their tiny slum homes where they were warmly welcomed.
David Briggs at the home of his IELTS student the wonderful artist Hari Om who presented him with a scarf as a mark of gratitude
The next day GB members visited some of them in their tiny slum homes where they were warmly welcomed.
David Briggs at the home of his IELTS student the wonderful artist Hari Om who presented him with a scarf as a mark of gratitude
Governing Board members of Friends of Asha, Great Britain, wash the feet of the poor in the Mayapuri Slum Community
Governing board members of Friends of Asha Great Britain washing the feet of the poor in Mayapuri slum community. Pictures in the order of: Amanda Clegg, Helen Finch, David Finch and David Briggs. What a wonderful exchange of the most beautiful emotions
David Briggs, Trustee of Friends of Asha GB, visits Kusumpur Pahari Slum Community
David Briggs,Trustee of Friends of Asha GB and a wonderful friend is visiting us after 3 long years. After a warm welcome by the Asha team and the warriors, the vibrant college students narrated their life stories and explained how Asha has played a pivotal role in shaping their journey. David said he was fascinated after meeting these fresh, young minds and how they had a voice of their own and acted as role models for others in their community. After the lively and vibrant interaction with the students, the tone was set for a sombre, heart touching and emotional Geriatric feeding programme. The elderlies in their twilight years, who had worked hard for their families and had seen so many ups and downs in their lives, really looked forward every day to come to Asha, meet and greet everyone with a warm embrace and settle down for a delicious lunch after a prayer. The challenging individual stories of the elderlies moved David and he mentioned that he was really touched and privileged to be part of this beautiful moment.
David practiced Servanthood in Leadership when he washed the feet of 65 year old Ram Bahadur in a serene and tranquil environment. The emotional connect was very deep and David said that this was one of best moments of his life and gave him inner peace. After lunch, the powerful ladies of Mahila Mandal shared their life stories and their relentless march to move forward and change their destiny, scripting new success stories every day. The ladies also practiced the Asha value of Affirmation, when they were grouped in pairs and affirmed their partners.
After the community visit, where David interacted with the members of the community in their homes, the stage was set for the final session with beautiful children of the Bal Mandal. He engaged in values-based learning activities with the children. He explained the Story of Deepawali and highlighted the central message- the triumph of good over evil and the ushering in an era of hope. David said that he would always cherish the fond memories of this visit and would come back again next year.
David practiced Servanthood in Leadership when he washed the feet of 65 year old Ram Bahadur in a serene and tranquil environment. The emotional connect was very deep and David said that this was one of best moments of his life and gave him inner peace. After lunch, the powerful ladies of Mahila Mandal shared their life stories and their relentless march to move forward and change their destiny, scripting new success stories every day. The ladies also practiced the Asha value of Affirmation, when they were grouped in pairs and affirmed their partners.
After the community visit, where David interacted with the members of the community in their homes, the stage was set for the final session with beautiful children of the Bal Mandal. He engaged in values-based learning activities with the children. He explained the Story of Deepawali and highlighted the central message- the triumph of good over evil and the ushering in an era of hope. David said that he would always cherish the fond memories of this visit and would come back again next year.
Rama, a much loVEd Asha Senior Nurse Practitioner
Rama has been a Senior Nurse Practitioner serving the poor through Asha for the past 15 years. So experienced is she that she can take care of maternal and newborn heath, child health, chronic diseases, geriatric care and general patients. She saved hundreds of lives during Covid. She is compassionate, attentive, has great clinical acumen, and is extremely courageous and hardworking. She sees hundreds of patients every month. The patients and the Asha team truly love and respect her. She makes every effort to practice the Asha values. I feel so very fortunate to have her on our team.
A podcast of Dr Kiran’s interview with the Imperfects team on Truth, Leadership, Gratitude & Asha’s interventions in the slums of Delhi
Hi folks, this is a podcast of an interview that I gave while I was in Australia. The interviewers were really insightful, and funny at times. It’s called The Imperfects
https://bit.ly/3Scl5VT
https://bit.ly/3Scl5VT
Seema adds a Feather to her Cap as She Completes her Internship with the Embassy of Ireland
Hello folks, this is Seema. She has just completed her long term internship at the Embassy of Ireland. What a transformation this experience has brought about!
This was a story written about her in 2019. What a long way she has come.
“My name is Seema. I belong to Safeda Basti slum in Chanderpuri area of East Delhi. My family migrated from UP about 30 years ago. My father used to work as a Security Guard in a private school. He got addicted to alcohol and lost his job. Now he does not work at all.
I live in a small shanty. My mother works in a factory nearby where she cuts thread. We are 5 siblings. With her meagre earnings of Rs 7000/- per month, she feeds us all. She tells me that when she was newly married, she always wore a veil. When she had children, she never ate food during the day because she had to feed us. She only ate food at night. Her stories always break my heart.
That small room is our whole world. We sleep, eat, and cook in the same place. Four of us sleep on the same single bed which is partially broken. My father and brother sleep under the bed. The bed is little high. Many times rats come into our home and bite us while we are sleeping.
We use the mobile public toilet daily. Men and boys have made holes in the back wall, so that they can see us when we are using the toilet. I feel so ashamed.
My father watches TV all day, and beats my mother all the time. I cry quietly when I see my mother being beaten. Sometimes I get very angry at my father. But it’s of no use. He doesn’t listen. I feel very sad.
I studied in a nearby government school in Hindi Medium. I was a good student. I always scored high marks in spite of all my problems. When I was in class 10, I came across Asha. Suman came to meet me at my home and motivated me to visit the Asha centre. There, I was surrounded by loving members of the Asha family. The Asha Ambassadors who were my seniors, gave me coaching and motivated me. At home I used to study under my bed. During the day, I studied at the Asha centre where I got all the help and support. I gave many mock tests for my class 12 board exam. I also learnt English at Asha. All my schooling was in Hindi, and no one in my family knows English.
Suman made it a routine to visit me everyday to motivate and guide me. The day the class 12 board result was announced, I was unaware. I had gone out. When I came home, Suman was t my door waiting. She showed me my result. I had scored 91.75%. I can never forget that day. For a second, all the days of studying under the only bed, which is partially broken, came before me. I can’t believe that I had scored so well.
My efforts and the efforts of my Asha family were in front of me.
Since then, Suman has never left me. I have seen her waiting in long queues outside the college gate, only to make my future bright. Today, I am very happy to share with you that with Asha’s help and support, I have now secured a seat in Political Science Honours at Zakir Hussain College of Delhi University. I am the first person in my family and community who will go to university.
When I think of the future, I always think of my mother and her sufferings. One day I would like to buy her a flat where she can live in peace and comfort.
I am sure that with the Asha family by my side, I will succeed at university, and make you all proud one day.”
This was a story written about her in 2019. What a long way she has come.
“My name is Seema. I belong to Safeda Basti slum in Chanderpuri area of East Delhi. My family migrated from UP about 30 years ago. My father used to work as a Security Guard in a private school. He got addicted to alcohol and lost his job. Now he does not work at all.
I live in a small shanty. My mother works in a factory nearby where she cuts thread. We are 5 siblings. With her meagre earnings of Rs 7000/- per month, she feeds us all. She tells me that when she was newly married, she always wore a veil. When she had children, she never ate food during the day because she had to feed us. She only ate food at night. Her stories always break my heart.
That small room is our whole world. We sleep, eat, and cook in the same place. Four of us sleep on the same single bed which is partially broken. My father and brother sleep under the bed. The bed is little high. Many times rats come into our home and bite us while we are sleeping.
We use the mobile public toilet daily. Men and boys have made holes in the back wall, so that they can see us when we are using the toilet. I feel so ashamed.
My father watches TV all day, and beats my mother all the time. I cry quietly when I see my mother being beaten. Sometimes I get very angry at my father. But it’s of no use. He doesn’t listen. I feel very sad.
I studied in a nearby government school in Hindi Medium. I was a good student. I always scored high marks in spite of all my problems. When I was in class 10, I came across Asha. Suman came to meet me at my home and motivated me to visit the Asha centre. There, I was surrounded by loving members of the Asha family. The Asha Ambassadors who were my seniors, gave me coaching and motivated me. At home I used to study under my bed. During the day, I studied at the Asha centre where I got all the help and support. I gave many mock tests for my class 12 board exam. I also learnt English at Asha. All my schooling was in Hindi, and no one in my family knows English.
Suman made it a routine to visit me everyday to motivate and guide me. The day the class 12 board result was announced, I was unaware. I had gone out. When I came home, Suman was t my door waiting. She showed me my result. I had scored 91.75%. I can never forget that day. For a second, all the days of studying under the only bed, which is partially broken, came before me. I can’t believe that I had scored so well.
My efforts and the efforts of my Asha family were in front of me.
Since then, Suman has never left me. I have seen her waiting in long queues outside the college gate, only to make my future bright. Today, I am very happy to share with you that with Asha’s help and support, I have now secured a seat in Political Science Honours at Zakir Hussain College of Delhi University. I am the first person in my family and community who will go to university.
When I think of the future, I always think of my mother and her sufferings. One day I would like to buy her a flat where she can live in peace and comfort.
I am sure that with the Asha family by my side, I will succeed at university, and make you all proud one day.”
Asha reaches out to the recent Flash Flood Affected Yamuna Riverbed Slum community
The water has receded leaving muddy, slippery slushy areas everywhere
Urgent public health measures are being put in place to avoid an outbreak of water borne illnesses.
Folding cots being distributed for families to sit on and lie down. It’s going to take a long time for them to go back home
Warriors bathing the children. People had not washed for days. Soap has been liberally distributed and arrangements for clean water have been made through lobbying the municipal authorities
Urgent public health measures are being put in place to avoid an outbreak of water borne illnesses.
Folding cots being distributed for families to sit on and lie down. It’s going to take a long time for them to go back home
Warriors bathing the children. People had not washed for days. Soap has been liberally distributed and arrangements for clean water have been made through lobbying the municipal authorities
Visit of Vitamin Angels team at Asha Mayapuri Centre
Vitamin Angels have been a long-time partner of Asha and supporter of Asha’s Healthcare interventions through the supply of Vitamin A, Albendazole and MMS. The team of Vitamin Angels which included- Amy Stanfield- Senior Vice President of Operations, Bonnie Forssell- Chief Financial Officer, Shruti Menon- India Program Manager along with the India Team visited Asha’s Mayapuri centre on 23rd September’2022.
They saw the Asha clinic conducted by the Senior Nurse Practitioner and appreciated how Vitamin A was administered to the children as per the schedule every six months. They had a lively interaction with the members of the Asha Women’s Group (Mahila Mandal) and empathised with their life-changing stories of transformation. This was followed by interaction with the Asha students and their powerful narratives of how Asha’s support propelled their educational journey and changed their destiny and also visited the IT Lab. The VA team was touched by Asha’s Geriatric Feeding Programme before undertaking a community visit and experiencing how despite life’s challenges and sufferings, always retained their smile, positivity and hope.
They saw the Asha clinic conducted by the Senior Nurse Practitioner and appreciated how Vitamin A was administered to the children as per the schedule every six months. They had a lively interaction with the members of the Asha Women’s Group (Mahila Mandal) and empathised with their life-changing stories of transformation. This was followed by interaction with the Asha students and their powerful narratives of how Asha’s support propelled their educational journey and changed their destiny and also visited the IT Lab. The VA team was touched by Asha’s Geriatric Feeding Programme before undertaking a community visit and experiencing how despite life’s challenges and sufferings, always retained their smile, positivity and hope.
Asha Reaches out to the Flash Flood-Affected Riverbed Slum Community
Yesterday the River Bed got flooded again, and this time the water levels rose to unprecedented levels. Our warriors were on the ground helping children and the elderly reach higher ground. They loaded the meager belongings of the families on push carts and brought them on to higher ground
The Team Leads, Team members and warriors all got together, wading into the dirty water to rescue the people and their belongings.
Team members and Warriors rescuing them and their belongings.
Creating spaces for them to sit on higher ground, and helping them evacuate their shanties
The Team Leads, Team members and warriors all got together, wading into the dirty water to rescue the people and their belongings.
Team members and Warriors rescuing them and their belongings.
Creating spaces for them to sit on higher ground, and helping them evacuate their shanties
Dr Kiran Demonstrates Servanthood in Leadership for everyone to Emulate
It was with great love and tenderness that Asha’s Founder Dr Kiran washed the feet of two of the oldest members of the Asha family, Senior Nurse Practitioner Lelani, and Senior Lab Technician, Jacob. It was a deeply soul stirring moment for everyone present. The environment was marked by serenity and tranquility. It was also a time of welling up of heartfelt emotions of love and respect. “I will cherish this memory throughout my life”, said Lelani, unable to hold back her tears. We are all learning the true meaning of Servant Leadership by example. As all the Asha leaders try and practice this model of leadership, we experience freedom and liberation from self-centredness, wonderful bonding, understanding with, and respect from our team members. We feel a sense of energy and enthusiasm, a flourishing of the qualities within us, and wisdom to think clearly while making difficult decisions. There is a strong sense of belonging to the Asha family, where all members care for and support each other.
Short Video Update on Flood in River Bed Slum.
The struggle to rebuild lives continues, and it will take time and resources. Thank you all for your wonderful generosity that has enabled us to help in so many ways. Please share the video with others from your networks who made kind contributions.
https://youtu.be/FKku3zJWtxA
https://youtu.be/FKku3zJWtxA
Feeling of Emancipation and Liberation when Love is the Centre of our Lives
When Love is at the very Centre of our lives, rather than power, fame, pleasure, honor, wealth, we receive Freedom. As we stoop to serve, we are liberated, we feel fully alive, we flourish, and we receive unspeakable joy.
Sanjana, a Burn Survivor Combating Malnutrition
Sanjana, 17 Years old girl, lives near the railway track in the Mayapuri slum community. She has lived there for the past 15 years with her parents and siblings. His father works as a Rickshaw driver on daily wages and barely earns 400 INR daily. The amount his father gets is not enough for the whole family’s survival. Sometimes they had to spend sleepless nights in hunger, surviving on a glass of water. Due to this, gradually, she started suffering from Malnourishment. In addition, when she was 14 years old, she met with an accident due to a cylinder blast in her house. She suffered from severe burn injuries. However, no hospitals were ready to treat her at that time. However, the Asha family stood by her and after providing emergency first aid treatment, Asha’s CHV went to the hospital and got her admitted. Although she has scars on her body, the Asha team’s timely intervention saved her life.
Asha also helped her family during the pandemic by providing mental and emotional support and rations to sustain their livelihood. Asha also enrolled Sanjana on Special Clinic for Malnutrition, and she was given high energy, high protein laddoos five days a week along with supplements. Sanjana’s weight has increased, and she feels much more energetic and cheerful.
She is currently in her Class 12th and preparing for the final board exams using the Asha IT lab at Mayapuri. She plans to enroll on higher education to develop a promising career.
Asha also helped her family during the pandemic by providing mental and emotional support and rations to sustain their livelihood. Asha also enrolled Sanjana on Special Clinic for Malnutrition, and she was given high energy, high protein laddoos five days a week along with supplements. Sanjana’s weight has increased, and she feels much more energetic and cheerful.
She is currently in her Class 12th and preparing for the final board exams using the Asha IT lab at Mayapuri. She plans to enroll on higher education to develop a promising career.
Asha Celebrates World Gratitude Day
Hello folks, today is World Gratitude Day! While we celebrate and make efforts to practice this virtue everyday, we had a special focus on it today. The pictures say it all!
Asha Team cooks a delicious Meal for the Support Staff as an Expression of Gratitude
I suggested to the team that they cook a delicious meal for the support staff such as the maids, drivers, peons and guards. This would be an expression of gratitude for their loving and dedicated service for years ranging from 20 to 5. They sat around the table while the Managers, Team Leads, Paramedics and other staff served them. This was followed by washing of their feet as an expression of their equal worth and of Servanthood in Leadership. How beautiful were the emotions that were expressed and how great was the joy in the air.
Asha A RAY of Hope for the Elderly in the Slums
These are those who have no one else in the world to call their own. May we always draw near to them when they need us, hold them close and surround them with our love, give them the gift of a life of joy and peace with a pure heart, and may we ever be true to them.
Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of Melbourne visit Asha Mayapuri Slum Centre
Professor Mike McGuckin and Martyn Kreider of the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, visited the Asha Mayapuri slum centre. They were shown the healthcare programme and appreciated how Asha provided the treatment with care and compassion.
This was followed by lively interactions with Asha higher education students and Mahila Mandal/ladies’ group members. Finally, they also saw the geriatric feeding Programme and were taken for a community visit across the railway line. In the end, they said, “we are carrying fond memories of our visit to Asha and powerful stories of transformation of lives.”
This was followed by lively interactions with Asha higher education students and Mahila Mandal/ladies’ group members. Finally, they also saw the geriatric feeding Programme and were taken for a community visit across the railway line. In the end, they said, “we are carrying fond memories of our visit to Asha and powerful stories of transformation of lives.”
Hariom, first Asha’s Fine Art Graduate, paints Beautiful Murals.
This is Asha student Hari Om’s artwork in the study room of one of the Asha’s centres. He will make his way to Australia for his Masters once he cracks the IELTS. Thank you, David Briggs, for being his wonderful teacher and Chris Elstoft for being a mentor and for opening numerous doors for him and encouraging him along his journey.
He would like to do a Masters in Digital Art at an Australian university
He would like to do a Masters in Digital Art at an Australian university
Steve Bradley, CEO of Southern Design Group, Visits Asha Slum Community
Steve Bradley CEO of Southern Design Group in Adelaide. Standing on the left of Dr Kiran. Dr Kiran made a day visit to them recently. What a wonderful group of people. They have been supporting Asha for the past two years.
And here is Steve again at an Asha community that he visited on Wednesday. The world is truly small!
And here is Steve again at an Asha community that he visited on Wednesday. The world is truly small!
Tender Embraces: A way of Life at Asha
Tender embraces filled with love are a way of life at Asha. They generate deep affection, immense trust, the strongest of bonds, they heal broken hearts, and change loveless, lonely and sad lives into lives filled with joy and peace.
Lily: Asha’s First Nurse Practitioner, a noble example of Servanthood and Compassion
This is Asha’s very first Nurse Practitioner Lily. Together we took care of sick patients in an open space next to a filthy, smelly large drain in 1988. She sees thousands of patients every year: children, expectant mothers, the elderly, patients with chronic diseases and everything in between. She risked her life during Covid, saving the lives of critically ill patients in their homes. She feeds the elderly with so much love, and gives each one a tender embrace before they go home. What a noble life she has been leading for the past 34 years, serving the poor with a heart of true compassion and servanthood. She is dearly loved by the community she serves, and by her team.
Asha students enjoy the Marshmallow Challenge Exercise with the Mazars Team
It was a great day of excitement and learning for our Asha students and graduates when Mazars UK Partner Tom Brichieri-Colombi and his three colleagues, Alan, Kanika and Bhaskar visited the Ambedkar Basti Slum community on 10th September. The Mazars Team led our students to engage in an 18-minute American Marshmallow Challenge to build the tallest structure with the marshmallow on the top, dividing them into groups with 4-5 members. At the end of the activity, the students and the Mazars team analysed the reasons for failures and successes. The students had the great learning that every project has its marshmallow hidden challenges that nobody considers. Thank you, Team Mazars, for facilitating the exercise, enabling our students to understand the benefits of teamwork and brainstorming a new idea!
Here is the YouTube video link on the whole exercise where you can learn more about the Marshmallow challenge explained by Tom, Mazars Partner: youtu.be/_192OnHSaEE
Here is the YouTube video link on the whole exercise where you can learn more about the Marshmallow challenge explained by Tom, Mazars Partner: youtu.be/_192OnHSaEE
Mohini, First Girl from the Slums of India, receives a Full Scholarship to pursue a Master’s at the prestigious University of Queensland
Here’s an exciting scholarship and admissions letter from UQ to the first girl from the slums of India! Chris Elstoft @ Amitava: thank you for working so hard to make this happen.
The Hon Lisa Singh, past Senator in the Australian parliament (Labour Party) visits Asha slum Community
We had the joy of receiving The Hon Lisa Singh, past Senator in the Australian parliament( Labour Party), and CEO of Australia India Institute, University of Melbourne, visit us today. She enthusiastically engaged with the residents of Seelampur, one of the most impoverished slums in the city. She is inspired and excited to help Asha in a number of ways, and we had discussions on possibilities over lunch.
The primary goal of Australia India Institute is to strengthen ties between the two countries in multiple sectors.
The primary goal of Australia India Institute is to strengthen ties between the two countries in multiple sectors.
IT Lab inauguration at Dr Ambedkar slum
Hello folks, Tuesday was a wonderful day. We inaugurated the IT Centre at Dr Ambedkar Slum in honour of the Late Mr Kailash Chaudhary. KC as we all fondly called him, had been hosting events at Napa Valley California every year for over 20 years. He loved the Asha family and organized the Annual Asha events at Napa with great enthusiasm and passion, bringing in thousands of dollars for Asha’s work.
The students, none of whom have their own laptops, were delighted with this beautiful new facility. This is critical for their success at university and to obtain good jobs.
Rama, our senior nurse practitioner, cut the ribbon, with warriors and our senior most CHV Meena, on either side of her. The students sitting in front of their beautiful laptops in the Centre, shared their experiences and expressed their thanks for this facility. Family and friends of KC also spoke, and we all remembered him with love and gratitude. His picture and tribute placed on the front wall, will always remind us of KC’s legacy that will live on for generations to come.
We were happy that KC’s family in Napa, the employees of his company Chaudhary and Associates, his friends in Napa, board members of Friends of Asha USA, and those of Asha India, joined us on Zoom.
Deepest thanks to each one of you who donated to make this Centre a reality.
The students, none of whom have their own laptops, were delighted with this beautiful new facility. This is critical for their success at university and to obtain good jobs.
Rama, our senior nurse practitioner, cut the ribbon, with warriors and our senior most CHV Meena, on either side of her. The students sitting in front of their beautiful laptops in the Centre, shared their experiences and expressed their thanks for this facility. Family and friends of KC also spoke, and we all remembered him with love and gratitude. His picture and tribute placed on the front wall, will always remind us of KC’s legacy that will live on for generations to come.
We were happy that KC’s family in Napa, the employees of his company Chaudhary and Associates, his friends in Napa, board members of Friends of Asha USA, and those of Asha India, joined us on Zoom.
Deepest thanks to each one of you who donated to make this Centre a reality.
Flood Affected Riverbed Community Gains Hope and Courage from Dr Kiran
Hello folks, yesterday I went to the slum community that had got flooded when I was in Australia. I was heartbroken to see the devastation, the ruin, the loss of whatever little they had, their desperation and their sorrow. The little children sitting on the mud wearing no clothes, made me so sad.
I prayed to God to set my spirit free to pour out my abundant love on them from a pure heart, to embrace and kiss them with true compassion, to understand their emotions, to console and comfort them, specially the little children. As I walked through the lanes holding each one with tenderness and looking at them with eyes of love, I saw a resurrection of hope in them. Many wept tears of sorrow as we embraced each other, others expressed gratitude from their hearts for the aid provided by the Asha team, some came and garlanded me even though their homes were empty, others held my cheeks and kissed me. I felt my heart would burst with love for them. I saw them as my brothers and sisters, my parents and my children, who had gone through unimaginable suffering.
Our emergency relief continues in the form of food relief for the children and the families, roof coverings, bedsheets and towels, cots and mattresses, the list goes on.
Thank you to each one of you who loved them as your own from afar, and made generous contributions. There is so much more to be done before they can rebuild their lives.
May our hearts be filled a great, a deep and a rich love for them as we share in their sufferings and keep joining our hearts with theirs to help them in every way possible.
I prayed to God to set my spirit free to pour out my abundant love on them from a pure heart, to embrace and kiss them with true compassion, to understand their emotions, to console and comfort them, specially the little children. As I walked through the lanes holding each one with tenderness and looking at them with eyes of love, I saw a resurrection of hope in them. Many wept tears of sorrow as we embraced each other, others expressed gratitude from their hearts for the aid provided by the Asha team, some came and garlanded me even though their homes were empty, others held my cheeks and kissed me. I felt my heart would burst with love for them. I saw them as my brothers and sisters, my parents and my children, who had gone through unimaginable suffering.
Our emergency relief continues in the form of food relief for the children and the families, roof coverings, bedsheets and towels, cots and mattresses, the list goes on.
Thank you to each one of you who loved them as your own from afar, and made generous contributions. There is so much more to be done before they can rebuild their lives.
May our hearts be filled a great, a deep and a rich love for them as we share in their sufferings and keep joining our hearts with theirs to help them in every way possible.
Mahinder: a living example of a transformed life
This is Asha’s first international student Mahinder (extreme left). His home in the slum was in front of a dirty smelly public toilet block. He grew up in great poverty. Today he works as a software engineer for Macquarie Bank in Australia. He has just bought a beautiful home in one of the most happening areas of Melbourne, Lygon Street. He invited all the other Asha students and me for dinner at his own home! My heart swelled with pride and joy. At the same time I addressed all the students, reminding them to stay humble and grounded, always paying it forward to the younger students in the Asha communities, never allowing the chain of transformation to be broken.
Vice- Chancellor, the University of Sydney visits Asha Slum Community
Asha had the immense pleasure of hosting Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Mark Scott AO, the University of Sydney, along with Kristen Andrews, Vice President, External Engagement, and Himanshu Kohli, Senior Recruitment Advisor, North and East India, on 5th September 2022. The team interacted with the Asha Communication Team at the Asha Polyclinic, where they were briefed about Asha’s journey of transforming lives in the slums of Delhi through the Photo exhibition.
The dignitaries then visited the Asha Centre at Kalkaji Slum Community. After a cordial welcome, the team interacted with the Asha graduates and College students, where they shared their education journey with Asha’s help, overcoming different life challenges in the slums. The students shared how Asha has supported their life’s journey and education through individual counselling, financial support, IT Labs, internships, and mentorship in English communication. Prof Mark Scott encouraged the students to develop critical and creative thinking to reach glorious heights in their future endeavours. The team was also briefed about Asha’s other programmes and the practices of Asha values.
The Asha family expresses its deepest gratitude to Prof Mark Scott and his team for their visit and thanks them for the partnership between Asha and the University of Sydney.
Prof. Mark Scott also addressed the Asha student community and advised them to make the best use of the educational opportunities and change their life’s journey : https://youtu.be/tnjkwcP8Eq4
The dignitaries then visited the Asha Centre at Kalkaji Slum Community. After a cordial welcome, the team interacted with the Asha graduates and College students, where they shared their education journey with Asha’s help, overcoming different life challenges in the slums. The students shared how Asha has supported their life’s journey and education through individual counselling, financial support, IT Labs, internships, and mentorship in English communication. Prof Mark Scott encouraged the students to develop critical and creative thinking to reach glorious heights in their future endeavours. The team was also briefed about Asha’s other programmes and the practices of Asha values.
The Asha family expresses its deepest gratitude to Prof Mark Scott and his team for their visit and thanks them for the partnership between Asha and the University of Sydney.
Prof. Mark Scott also addressed the Asha student community and advised them to make the best use of the educational opportunities and change their life’s journey : https://youtu.be/tnjkwcP8Eq4
Dr Sharmila Lal: A dedicated Asha General Practitioner
Hi folks, most of you have met Dr Sharmila Lal, I think. She has been providing the finest of health care to Asha patients since 1990. Although she is an Obstetrician/ Gynecologist, she has been functioning as a General Practitioner for 33 years at Asha. The patients love her, and many come from long distances to get seen by her. I have great respect and admiration for her as a professional and as a person. Dr Sharmila: Thank you as words will never be enough to appreciate the way in which you have served the poor all your life.
Chandan: on the right path to a bright future
This is Chandan. He lived in poverty all his life in an Asha slum community, his father picking up heavy boxes of copper wire from trucks, and manually transporting them into storage spaces. I remember meeting him when he was about 7 years of age; he was sitting on my lap at the Asha Centre in his community. As I began to mentor him, he did his Bachelors in Pure Maths from Delhi University, then a double Masters, one at Imperial College London, and is now doing a PhD in Pure Maths at the University of Melbourne. These pictures were taken at his beautiful home on the famous Lygon Street, just a 10 minute walk to the university. Can you imagine how I might have felt? My eyes welled up and my heart was filled with joy.
Asha students in Australia meet Cricketer Ricky ponting
A surreal moment in the lives of the boys- meeting famous Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting at a major event organized by the Australia India Chamber of Commerce. The Asha video was shown, and the work of Asha was spoken about at many points during the evening. Ricky Ponting is now the Coach for the IPL team Delhi Capitals. He suggested a match with the young people in Asha communities at the international cricketing stadium in Delhi. Wouldn’t that be awesome? This was a highlight moment for the young Asha students that evening.
Dr Kiran Meets the Hon Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria & Patron of AFOA
I met with the Governor of Victoria the Hon Linda Dessau who is the Patron of Australian Friends of Asha. She and her husband Anthony had visited Asha some years ago. She was delighted to hear of the progress of the Asha students in Australia. We all hoped for an event at Government House on my next trip, to celebrate their achievements. On the extreme right is Robert Johanson, Chair of Australian Friends of Asha
Australian Federal Minister for Education Mentions Asha Student Tushar, an example of the power of Education for transforming the lives
Hello everyone, here’s a copy of a speech given by the Australian Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare,where he refers to Asha and to Tushar. It’s a long key note address, but the part relevant to Asha is as below. How wonderful that the Australian Minister for Education finds Tushar’s story as a fine example of the Power of Education.
https://www.jasonclare.com.au/
The Australian Financial Review Higher Education Summit
KEYNOTE SPEECH
30 AUGUST 2022, SYDNEY
* CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY *
Thank you to the Australian Financial Review for organising this summit. It comes at an important time.
As you know, there’s another summit happening this week. And there is a natural synergy between the two.
There aren’t many businesses that aren’t screaming out for talent at the moment. We have got the second highest skills shortage in the developed world, according to the OECD. Skills shortages are everywhere. Shops, pubs, clubs. Hotels, motels, airports. Schools, hospitals, child care centres. Companies big and small.
And lots of those skills are forged in our universities. Engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants, software programmers, environmental scientists, and lots more. The 20,000 extra Commonwealth Supported Places I announced a few weeks ago are targeted squarely at building these sorts of skills. It’s a competitive selection process. Tenders are open and universities have until 19 September to put in their bids. They have got to be for places where we have a skills shortage. The sorts of skills you see on the National Skills Commission’s Skills Priority List. I have also made it clear that universities will be required to offer all 20,000 places to the Aussies we don’t see enough of on campus. Australians from poorer backgrounds. Aussies from the regions. Australians with a disability. Indigenous Australians. Australians who are the first in their family to ever step foot in a university lecture theatre or laboratory. I said at the Universities Australia Conference last month that I don’t want us to be a country where your opportunities in life depend on your postcode, your parents, or the colour of your skin.
They weren’t just words. I meant it. And I want to do something about it. This is the start.
I want the Universities Accord, that I will kick off later this year, to look at this too. The last real review of our universities was done by Professor Denise Bradley almost fifteen years ago. She set the target in that review that by 2020, forty percent of young Australians would have a university qualification. And today they do. More than forty-three per cent do.
But Professor Bradley also set another target – that by 2020, twenty percent of university enrolments should be for students from low socio-economic backgrounds. And on that front, we have failed. There’s no other way to describe it. In fifteen years, the dial has barely moved. I know a lot of universities are doing good things here. Last Tuesday, the University of Queensland set itself the target that 30 percent of its students will come from disadvantaged backgrounds within 10 years.
The next day my old university, the University of New South Wales, set its own target of 25 in 5. 25 percent of first year students from underrepresented groups in five years. This is big. It inspires me and I hope others here too.
On their own, actions like these change lives. Acting together, reforms like these change nations. That’s why this will be a big part of the Accord. Another thing the Accord team will look at is how the pandemic has affected students and universities.
You see some of that in the student satisfaction survey results that came out last week.The worst of the pandemic is hopefully now behind us, but we are still feeling the aftershocks. School teachers talk to me about it. So do Vice Chancellors.
Two years taken off you takes its toll. What most of us in this room missed out on in the last two years we can get back. We can do this year or the next. It’s not the same if you are 18. Think about what you were doing when you were 18 or 21. You don’t get those years back. It’s why the mental health impact of the pandemic is so acute here.
When I was 18 four bars meant a big night out. In the last few years its meant a good internet connection.
And when you’ve been locked up online for two years, I get why some young people don’t want to go to uni. Aren’t ready or aren’t coping. None of this is unique to Australia. In Melbourne, which was locked down longer than any other part of Australia, schools were basically shut, and students were learning remotely, for 25 weeks.
In the US they were shut for 71 weeks. In Indonesia 77. In India 82. Think about that. The impact has got to be enormous. Even if it’s temporary. But the pandemic has also made changes to the way we study and the way we work that aren’t temporary. There have got to be some things about how our universities work that have changed for good.
Online learning is the most obvious example. Not on the scale it was during lockdowns, but bigger than it was before.
So what does that mean for students, for the type of education they receive, how prepared they are for work?
What does that mean for staff and how universities work? That’s something I want the Accord team to look at.
I will have more to say about the Accord in the next few months. Today I am announcing the next steps I am taking to reform and improve the work of the Australian Research Council. We are the home of some of the most brilliant researchers and the most cutting-edge research in world. And the ARC plays a fundamental role in supporting, shaping and sustaining that.
The work the ARC does is critical. But it also needs reform. For a start we need to take the politics out of it.
Delays and political interference damage our international reputation and make it harder for universities to recruit and retain staff. As I said last month, we need to make sure all future grant rounds are delivered on time, to a predetermined time frame. I have also committed to an independent review of the ARC and the legislation that underpins it.
It’s the first review of the Act in more than 20 years. Today I can announce that that review will be led by Professor Margaret Sheil AO, Vice Chancellor of the Queensland University of Technology. Margaret will lead a review team that also includes:
Professor Mark Hutchinson, the Director of the Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics and a Professor of Medicine at the University of Adelaide, and Professor Susan Dodds, Senior Deputy-Vice Chancellor and Vice-President (Research & Industry Engagement) and Professor of Philosophy at La Trobe University. A formidable triumvirate – that bring with them a wealth of experience in government and academia, in STEM and the humanities, in running the ARC and using the funding it provides to develop new research. Their Terms of Reference are broad. I am asking them to look at the role and purpose of the ARC within the Australian research system so it can meet current and future needs and maintain the trust of the research sector. They will report to me by the end of March 2023. This week I have also issued a new Letter of Expectations to the ARC.
I know the way the current National Interest Test operates is causing problems. When Brian Schmidt, the Vice Chancellor of ANU, tells you the research he did that won him the Noble Prize wouldn’t qualify under the current test, you know you have to make some changes. I think we need a national interest test, but I think we can make it clearer and simpler.
In my letter I have asked the ARC to work with universities and researchers to make that happen. To develop guidance for applicants that is clear and simple and advise me on reforms to improve the process. Judi Zielke, the CEO of the ARC, has already started this work. Talking to many of you in this room, listening to your concerns about the National Interest Test and working with you on ways to address them. And it’s reflected in the guidelines for the new Industry Fellowship Program that the ARC is about to launch. The panel of expert assessors undertaking the peer review process will also assess the National Interest Test for each application. This is a step in the right direction and I thank Judi for the work she has already done here.
I have also asked the ARC to consider how the National Interest Test is applied in different grant categories, recognising, for example, that the Discovery Program includes fundamental research that by its very nature may not have a clearly defined application or outcome. When I was a kid an Australian engineer, John O’Sullivan, went looking for tiny black holes. He never found them. But the tool he created trying to find them lives on today. It’s here in the room right now. It’s Wi-Fi.
Can you imagine life without it? Can you think of an Australian invention that has had a more far-reaching impact on the world we live in? And it came out of research into the corners of the universe. Around the same time John O’Sullivan was looking for black holes Katalin Karikó was collecting rejections. Karikó is a Hungarian biochemist. For decades she obsessed over an idea that failed to win grant funding. Even got her demoted. But she persisted. Today we all know what that idea was. Most of us have had it injected into our arms. It’s called mRNA. Most of us know it as Pfizer or Moderna.
What’s the point? What we do here matters. Research won’t always work out or take us to where we expect, but its big ideas and basic research that will change the world. Just finally on the ARC, another area where I have got a lot of feedback from universities is on the ERA assessment.
It is critical in measuring the quality of our research, but it also involves a lot of work and needs reform.
To fix this I have asked the ARC to discontinue preparations for the 2023 ERA round and come back to me by the end of the year on a plan to develop a modern data driven approach to the ERA, informed by peer review.
Back to this week. One of the things that will be in the mix at the Jobs and Skills Summit is what we do with migration.
That’s no surprise. But I also want us to talk about how we make more of what we have already got.
At the moment only 16 percent of international students stay on after their studies end. A lot of those students are delivering us food and serving coffee in between classes. But when they graduate, they go home. Wouldn’t it be great if they stayed on and helped us fill some of the chronic skills gaps we have got? Seems like a no brainer. Other countries have cottoned on to this and have changed their visa settings and it’s something I think that’s worth looking at here too.
This afternoon I am convening the expert members of the Council for International Education for the first time since the election to kick this around and hopefully it will get a run at the Jobs and Skills Summit.
This is just one of the things I want us to think about.
*_At Sydney University there is a student from Delhi named Tushar. He’s no ordinary international student.
He grew up in a West Delhi slum between a railway line and the scrapyard where his father worked for $30 a week.
An Asha Foundation scholarship helped him finish high school and go to university.
When he got there Covid hit. What did he do? He formed a group called the Corona-warriors who volunteered to teach people in slums like the one he lived in how to keep safe from Covid. And now he’s here doing a Masters of International Relations, on a Sydney Scholars Indian Equity scholarship. He landed nine months ago and he’s already been voted on to the University Council. He wants to do a PhD and work for the UN – because that is where he thinks he can change the most lives.
Can you think of a more potent example of the power of education?*
_
Last week the Indian Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, was here in Sydney.
It was the first time he had been to Australia. We spent the day together. We are about the same age. And I told him if we got in a time machine and went back to when we were born he wouldn’t recognise the Australia we found.
For a start around 80 per cent of the population was born in Australia. Most were of Anglo Celtic heritage. Today one of two Australians have a parent born overseas. The fastest growing religion is Hinduism. Up 50 percent in the last five years.
Back when I was born only 18 percent of Aussies finished high school and only two percent had a uni degree.
That country doesn’t exist anymore. And then Dharmendra talked to me about his country.
1.4 billion people. Half a billion under the age of twenty-three.
We think we have a skills challenge. He’s got the job of getting 50 percent of young people into vocational and higher education by 2035. That’s his target. That’s nation changing stuff. And he wants our help. He wants to see Australian university campuses in India. He told us so. There’s the challenge. The University of Wollongong has already signed a Letter of Intent to set up a campus in GIFT City in Gujarat. They are planning to be operational by September next year. But who will follow? There are only so many Indian students like Tushar that will ever get to study here in Australia. But we can also take that education to them. If we are up for it. I hope we are. The benefits for both our countries would be enormous.
I have touched on a few things this morning: skills and the pandemic. The Accord and the ARC. International education. India.
Different issues. Different challenges. But I hope in what have said today you see a common thread, and that’s how we do this. I think there’s only one way. And that’s working together.
If you have known me for a while or worked with me when I was a Minister in the last Labor Government you know I mean it. It’s how I operate. And if you have let me pick your brain in the last 12 weeks, I appreciate it. It’s just the start.
And it’s not just me. It’s the way the whole government wants to work, and I hope you see that in the Summit this week.
I also think it’s what Australians are yearning for. I think they are sick of the interminable fake fights. They want a government that is serious and sensible. That works with everyone. That tries to find common ground. That’s focused on them. On the here and now and what we leave behind.
Education is one of those areas where if we get it right, we will plant the seeds of trees that will provide shade for generations of Australians we will never live to meet. There is not much more noble in this business than that.
Let’s do it together. At Sydney University there is a student from Delhi named Tushar*.
He’s no ordinary international student. He grew up in a West Delhi slum between a railway line and the scrapyard where his father worked for $30 a week.
An Asha Foundation scholarship helped him finish high school and go to university.
When he got there Covid hit. What did he do?
He formed a group called the Corona-warriors who volunteered to teach people in slums like the one he lived in how to keep safe from Covid.
And now he’s here doing a Masters of International Relations, on a Sydney Scholars Indian Equity scholarship.
He landed nine months ago and he’s already been voted on to the University Council.
He wants to do a PhD and work for the UN – because that is where he thinks he can change the most lives.
Can you think of a more potent example of the power of education?
https://www.jasonclare.com.au/
The Australian Financial Review Higher Education Summit
KEYNOTE SPEECH
30 AUGUST 2022, SYDNEY
* CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY *
Thank you to the Australian Financial Review for organising this summit. It comes at an important time.
As you know, there’s another summit happening this week. And there is a natural synergy between the two.
There aren’t many businesses that aren’t screaming out for talent at the moment. We have got the second highest skills shortage in the developed world, according to the OECD. Skills shortages are everywhere. Shops, pubs, clubs. Hotels, motels, airports. Schools, hospitals, child care centres. Companies big and small.
And lots of those skills are forged in our universities. Engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants, software programmers, environmental scientists, and lots more. The 20,000 extra Commonwealth Supported Places I announced a few weeks ago are targeted squarely at building these sorts of skills. It’s a competitive selection process. Tenders are open and universities have until 19 September to put in their bids. They have got to be for places where we have a skills shortage. The sorts of skills you see on the National Skills Commission’s Skills Priority List. I have also made it clear that universities will be required to offer all 20,000 places to the Aussies we don’t see enough of on campus. Australians from poorer backgrounds. Aussies from the regions. Australians with a disability. Indigenous Australians. Australians who are the first in their family to ever step foot in a university lecture theatre or laboratory. I said at the Universities Australia Conference last month that I don’t want us to be a country where your opportunities in life depend on your postcode, your parents, or the colour of your skin.
They weren’t just words. I meant it. And I want to do something about it. This is the start.
I want the Universities Accord, that I will kick off later this year, to look at this too. The last real review of our universities was done by Professor Denise Bradley almost fifteen years ago. She set the target in that review that by 2020, forty percent of young Australians would have a university qualification. And today they do. More than forty-three per cent do.
But Professor Bradley also set another target – that by 2020, twenty percent of university enrolments should be for students from low socio-economic backgrounds. And on that front, we have failed. There’s no other way to describe it. In fifteen years, the dial has barely moved. I know a lot of universities are doing good things here. Last Tuesday, the University of Queensland set itself the target that 30 percent of its students will come from disadvantaged backgrounds within 10 years.
The next day my old university, the University of New South Wales, set its own target of 25 in 5. 25 percent of first year students from underrepresented groups in five years. This is big. It inspires me and I hope others here too.
On their own, actions like these change lives. Acting together, reforms like these change nations. That’s why this will be a big part of the Accord. Another thing the Accord team will look at is how the pandemic has affected students and universities.
You see some of that in the student satisfaction survey results that came out last week.The worst of the pandemic is hopefully now behind us, but we are still feeling the aftershocks. School teachers talk to me about it. So do Vice Chancellors.
Two years taken off you takes its toll. What most of us in this room missed out on in the last two years we can get back. We can do this year or the next. It’s not the same if you are 18. Think about what you were doing when you were 18 or 21. You don’t get those years back. It’s why the mental health impact of the pandemic is so acute here.
When I was 18 four bars meant a big night out. In the last few years its meant a good internet connection.
And when you’ve been locked up online for two years, I get why some young people don’t want to go to uni. Aren’t ready or aren’t coping. None of this is unique to Australia. In Melbourne, which was locked down longer than any other part of Australia, schools were basically shut, and students were learning remotely, for 25 weeks.
In the US they were shut for 71 weeks. In Indonesia 77. In India 82. Think about that. The impact has got to be enormous. Even if it’s temporary. But the pandemic has also made changes to the way we study and the way we work that aren’t temporary. There have got to be some things about how our universities work that have changed for good.
Online learning is the most obvious example. Not on the scale it was during lockdowns, but bigger than it was before.
So what does that mean for students, for the type of education they receive, how prepared they are for work?
What does that mean for staff and how universities work? That’s something I want the Accord team to look at.
I will have more to say about the Accord in the next few months. Today I am announcing the next steps I am taking to reform and improve the work of the Australian Research Council. We are the home of some of the most brilliant researchers and the most cutting-edge research in world. And the ARC plays a fundamental role in supporting, shaping and sustaining that.
The work the ARC does is critical. But it also needs reform. For a start we need to take the politics out of it.
Delays and political interference damage our international reputation and make it harder for universities to recruit and retain staff. As I said last month, we need to make sure all future grant rounds are delivered on time, to a predetermined time frame. I have also committed to an independent review of the ARC and the legislation that underpins it.
It’s the first review of the Act in more than 20 years. Today I can announce that that review will be led by Professor Margaret Sheil AO, Vice Chancellor of the Queensland University of Technology. Margaret will lead a review team that also includes:
Professor Mark Hutchinson, the Director of the Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics and a Professor of Medicine at the University of Adelaide, and Professor Susan Dodds, Senior Deputy-Vice Chancellor and Vice-President (Research & Industry Engagement) and Professor of Philosophy at La Trobe University. A formidable triumvirate – that bring with them a wealth of experience in government and academia, in STEM and the humanities, in running the ARC and using the funding it provides to develop new research. Their Terms of Reference are broad. I am asking them to look at the role and purpose of the ARC within the Australian research system so it can meet current and future needs and maintain the trust of the research sector. They will report to me by the end of March 2023. This week I have also issued a new Letter of Expectations to the ARC.
I know the way the current National Interest Test operates is causing problems. When Brian Schmidt, the Vice Chancellor of ANU, tells you the research he did that won him the Noble Prize wouldn’t qualify under the current test, you know you have to make some changes. I think we need a national interest test, but I think we can make it clearer and simpler.
In my letter I have asked the ARC to work with universities and researchers to make that happen. To develop guidance for applicants that is clear and simple and advise me on reforms to improve the process. Judi Zielke, the CEO of the ARC, has already started this work. Talking to many of you in this room, listening to your concerns about the National Interest Test and working with you on ways to address them. And it’s reflected in the guidelines for the new Industry Fellowship Program that the ARC is about to launch. The panel of expert assessors undertaking the peer review process will also assess the National Interest Test for each application. This is a step in the right direction and I thank Judi for the work she has already done here.
I have also asked the ARC to consider how the National Interest Test is applied in different grant categories, recognising, for example, that the Discovery Program includes fundamental research that by its very nature may not have a clearly defined application or outcome. When I was a kid an Australian engineer, John O’Sullivan, went looking for tiny black holes. He never found them. But the tool he created trying to find them lives on today. It’s here in the room right now. It’s Wi-Fi.
Can you imagine life without it? Can you think of an Australian invention that has had a more far-reaching impact on the world we live in? And it came out of research into the corners of the universe. Around the same time John O’Sullivan was looking for black holes Katalin Karikó was collecting rejections. Karikó is a Hungarian biochemist. For decades she obsessed over an idea that failed to win grant funding. Even got her demoted. But she persisted. Today we all know what that idea was. Most of us have had it injected into our arms. It’s called mRNA. Most of us know it as Pfizer or Moderna.
What’s the point? What we do here matters. Research won’t always work out or take us to where we expect, but its big ideas and basic research that will change the world. Just finally on the ARC, another area where I have got a lot of feedback from universities is on the ERA assessment.
It is critical in measuring the quality of our research, but it also involves a lot of work and needs reform.
To fix this I have asked the ARC to discontinue preparations for the 2023 ERA round and come back to me by the end of the year on a plan to develop a modern data driven approach to the ERA, informed by peer review.
Back to this week. One of the things that will be in the mix at the Jobs and Skills Summit is what we do with migration.
That’s no surprise. But I also want us to talk about how we make more of what we have already got.
At the moment only 16 percent of international students stay on after their studies end. A lot of those students are delivering us food and serving coffee in between classes. But when they graduate, they go home. Wouldn’t it be great if they stayed on and helped us fill some of the chronic skills gaps we have got? Seems like a no brainer. Other countries have cottoned on to this and have changed their visa settings and it’s something I think that’s worth looking at here too.
This afternoon I am convening the expert members of the Council for International Education for the first time since the election to kick this around and hopefully it will get a run at the Jobs and Skills Summit.
This is just one of the things I want us to think about.
*_At Sydney University there is a student from Delhi named Tushar. He’s no ordinary international student.
He grew up in a West Delhi slum between a railway line and the scrapyard where his father worked for $30 a week.
An Asha Foundation scholarship helped him finish high school and go to university.
When he got there Covid hit. What did he do? He formed a group called the Corona-warriors who volunteered to teach people in slums like the one he lived in how to keep safe from Covid. And now he’s here doing a Masters of International Relations, on a Sydney Scholars Indian Equity scholarship. He landed nine months ago and he’s already been voted on to the University Council. He wants to do a PhD and work for the UN – because that is where he thinks he can change the most lives.
Can you think of a more potent example of the power of education?*
_
Last week the Indian Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, was here in Sydney.
It was the first time he had been to Australia. We spent the day together. We are about the same age. And I told him if we got in a time machine and went back to when we were born he wouldn’t recognise the Australia we found.
For a start around 80 per cent of the population was born in Australia. Most were of Anglo Celtic heritage. Today one of two Australians have a parent born overseas. The fastest growing religion is Hinduism. Up 50 percent in the last five years.
Back when I was born only 18 percent of Aussies finished high school and only two percent had a uni degree.
That country doesn’t exist anymore. And then Dharmendra talked to me about his country.
1.4 billion people. Half a billion under the age of twenty-three.
We think we have a skills challenge. He’s got the job of getting 50 percent of young people into vocational and higher education by 2035. That’s his target. That’s nation changing stuff. And he wants our help. He wants to see Australian university campuses in India. He told us so. There’s the challenge. The University of Wollongong has already signed a Letter of Intent to set up a campus in GIFT City in Gujarat. They are planning to be operational by September next year. But who will follow? There are only so many Indian students like Tushar that will ever get to study here in Australia. But we can also take that education to them. If we are up for it. I hope we are. The benefits for both our countries would be enormous.
I have touched on a few things this morning: skills and the pandemic. The Accord and the ARC. International education. India.
Different issues. Different challenges. But I hope in what have said today you see a common thread, and that’s how we do this. I think there’s only one way. And that’s working together.
If you have known me for a while or worked with me when I was a Minister in the last Labor Government you know I mean it. It’s how I operate. And if you have let me pick your brain in the last 12 weeks, I appreciate it. It’s just the start.
And it’s not just me. It’s the way the whole government wants to work, and I hope you see that in the Summit this week.
I also think it’s what Australians are yearning for. I think they are sick of the interminable fake fights. They want a government that is serious and sensible. That works with everyone. That tries to find common ground. That’s focused on them. On the here and now and what we leave behind.
Education is one of those areas where if we get it right, we will plant the seeds of trees that will provide shade for generations of Australians we will never live to meet. There is not much more noble in this business than that.
Let’s do it together. At Sydney University there is a student from Delhi named Tushar*.
He’s no ordinary international student. He grew up in a West Delhi slum between a railway line and the scrapyard where his father worked for $30 a week.
An Asha Foundation scholarship helped him finish high school and go to university.
When he got there Covid hit. What did he do?
He formed a group called the Corona-warriors who volunteered to teach people in slums like the one he lived in how to keep safe from Covid.
And now he’s here doing a Masters of International Relations, on a Sydney Scholars Indian Equity scholarship.
He landed nine months ago and he’s already been voted on to the University Council.
He wants to do a PhD and work for the UN – because that is where he thinks he can change the most lives.
Can you think of a more potent example of the power of education?
Asha continues emergency intervention at Riverbed
350 families lost everything as their homes were flooded from the rising levels of the River Yamuna.
May Asha’s River of Love flow through their lives, from where they may quench their thirst for compassion and kindness. May the Asha River of Love restore their lives and bring them Hope.
May Asha’s River of Love flow through their lives, from where they may quench their thirst for compassion and kindness. May the Asha River of Love restore their lives and bring them Hope.
Dr Kiran meets the Vice Chancellor and Faculty, University of Melbourne
I had the great joy of meeting the Vice Chancellor and Provost at the University of Melbourne. The two wonderful days of engaging with faculty and officials at the highest level were organized by Professor Jim McCluskey, Deputy VC Research; he has been a long standing friend and is a member of the board of Australian Friends of Asha. L-R: Jim, Vice Chancellor Dunkin Haskell and Provost Nicola Philips. All are looking forward to working with Asha for the next student at UOM!
Asha strives to bring happiness to the lives of children across its communities
May we love the children in our communities with pure hearts, become a place for them where they can deposit their worries, may we deliver them from all their troubles and calamities, and may we always be worthy of their trust.
Tushar: An example for all Slum Children
From living in a shanty sandwiched between a railway track and a scrapyard, his father working as a laborer in the scrapyard, having suffered extreme poverty all his life, today he and I stand together outside St Paul’s College of Sydney University where he lives.
He is doing a Masters in International Relations at the University, and is making the entire Asha family all over the world proud of his achievements as well as the way in which he conducts himself. Thanks to each one of you who has been a part of his journey.
He is doing a Masters in International Relations at the University, and is making the entire Asha family all over the world proud of his achievements as well as the way in which he conducts himself. Thanks to each one of you who has been a part of his journey.
Chandan, the Asha’s first PhD Scholar
This is Chandan from an Asha slum community. From living on rent in a one room shanty, being thrown out of the shanty by its owner, father a labourer in old Delhi earning 120 dollars a month, studying in a public school and not knowing a word of English, he has come a long long way. He has been associated with Asha since the age of 8, and is today doing his PhD in Pure Mathematics at the University of Melbourne. I had the great joy of standing with him outside his department and taking this picture.
Asha reaches out to the Flood affected Slum Communities in River Bed
Hi everyone, the flood affected families on the River Bed have no homes, so we are helping them to make temporary structures and covering their roofs with water proof material. The Asha Ambassadors from other communities are doing all this work. It’s quite dangerous trying to lay a roof on a shaky structure. The Ambassadors and Team are brave and committed.
The entire area had huge amounts of garbage everywhere after the water receded. The Asha team invited the local Councillor and MLA to make a visit. Once they saw the situation, they sent a team of sanitary workers from the municipality, and they, along with our Ambassadors, cleaned up the entire area.
The Asha Team expressed heartfelt Gratitude to the Sanitary Workers for their cleaning services.
Our open air clinics continue daily to provide free health care to everyone
This short video shows some of the Asha interventions during this River Bed Crisis. Do have a look.
https://bit.ly/3csSflG
The entire area had huge amounts of garbage everywhere after the water receded. The Asha team invited the local Councillor and MLA to make a visit. Once they saw the situation, they sent a team of sanitary workers from the municipality, and they, along with our Ambassadors, cleaned up the entire area.
The Asha Team expressed heartfelt Gratitude to the Sanitary Workers for their cleaning services.
Our open air clinics continue daily to provide free health care to everyone
This short video shows some of the Asha interventions during this River Bed Crisis. Do have a look.
https://bit.ly/3csSflG
Amritesh fulfils his International Education dream, overcoming personal and slum challenges
From the huge dirt filled ponds in the slum, squatting in the jungles, filling cans of water from govt tankers for his needs, studying under the light of a torch, stuttering constantly, never having any money to buy enough food and clothes, never going to a movie or a bookstore, Amritesh has reached his final semester of Masters in International Economics and Finance. We walked along the sea at the Gold Coast talking about his journey, had a lovely lunch, enjoyed some delicious ice cream and returned to Brisbane, reminiscing his past and where he has reached today. We thought of Chris Elstoft and Peter Varghese who have been instrumental in opening doors and giving him opportunities. Spending one on one precious time with him on the Gold Coast was an unforgettable experience. Amritesh is a transformed young man, who will go on to achieving great things in life.
Dr Kiran meets Mr Peter Varghese, the vice-chancellor of The University of Queensland
Hi everyone, it was such a pleasure for me to meet an old friend Peter Varghese and his wife Margaret today. Peter was the Australian High Commissioner to India in 2009, and it is he along with Liz Peak who helped launch Asha’s Internship Program in 2010.
He is presently the Chancellor of the University of Queensland, and it was at his initiative that Amritesh was able to come for his Masters at UQ on a full scholarship. The engagement at the university is deepening, and the next student who is a girl from an Asha community, will be coming to do her Masters at UQ next year. Thank you so much Peter and Margaret for a wonderful evening spent together.
He is presently the Chancellor of the University of Queensland, and it was at his initiative that Amritesh was able to come for his Masters at UQ on a full scholarship. The engagement at the university is deepening, and the next student who is a girl from an Asha community, will be coming to do her Masters at UQ next year. Thank you so much Peter and Margaret for a wonderful evening spent together.
Dr Kiran visits the University of Queensland
Dr. Kiran was invited to the University of Queensland by Rongyu Li, Deputy Vice- chancellor and Vice-president of the University for a discussion on the partnership between the University of Queensland and Asha. Other senior officials such as Brett Lovegrove, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Partnership) of the University were also present.
There were exciting discussions around how the partnership could be further strengthened, given opportunities to many more students from Asha slums.
Asha’s first student to UQ, Amritesh was also present. He has set a wonderful example as the first student at UQ, scoring well and getting involved in many university activities.
Dr. Kiran thanked Mr. Rongyu Li and his team for their generous scholarship towards Asha students. Both organizations are enthusiastic towards getting the first female Asha student to UQ by October 2022. Thank you Rongyu Li, Brett Lovegrove and Tamara for your wonderful cooperation with Asha in transforming the lives of our slum students.
There were exciting discussions around how the partnership could be further strengthened, given opportunities to many more students from Asha slums.
Asha’s first student to UQ, Amritesh was also present. He has set a wonderful example as the first student at UQ, scoring well and getting involved in many university activities.
Dr. Kiran thanked Mr. Rongyu Li and his team for their generous scholarship towards Asha students. Both organizations are enthusiastic towards getting the first female Asha student to UQ by October 2022. Thank you Rongyu Li, Brett Lovegrove and Tamara for your wonderful cooperation with Asha in transforming the lives of our slum students.
Dr Kiran Speaks at an Event in Brisbane, Australia
Dr. Kiran and Amritesh spoke at an event organized by Nik Senapati, chair of the Queensland chapter of Australia India Business Council. A number of business men representing large business enterprises such as Adani group in Brisbane were present on the occasion. The lunch was hosted by Peter Varghese, Chancellor of University of Queensland and Nik Senapati.
The group was excited to hear from Dr. kiran about the wonderful transformation happening in the Asha slum communities. Asha student Amritesh who is currently in his final semester of Masters of International Economics and Finance, spoke about his life challenges from his childhood onwards.
His moving story touched the hearts of all those who were present. Nik Senapati will lead the initiative to form the Brisbane chapter of friends of Asha Australia. Thank you Nik and Peter for hosting this wonderful lunch. We look forward to working together in times to come.
The group was excited to hear from Dr. kiran about the wonderful transformation happening in the Asha slum communities. Asha student Amritesh who is currently in his final semester of Masters of International Economics and Finance, spoke about his life challenges from his childhood onwards.
His moving story touched the hearts of all those who were present. Nik Senapati will lead the initiative to form the Brisbane chapter of friends of Asha Australia. Thank you Nik and Peter for hosting this wonderful lunch. We look forward to working together in times to come.
Crises Intervention at Riverbed Slum Community
Children and the Elderly suffer the most in any crisis. Asha is helping the most vulnerable to survive by providing food and other essential items. Your donation will help us for this cause.
Here is the Link for the video:https://youtu.be/5i3MOLTppBk
Here is the Link for the video:https://youtu.be/5i3MOLTppBk
Asha Supports the Yamuna Riverbed Slum Community in their Gravest hour of crises
On 15th August’2022, when the entire nation was celebrating Seventy-Five years of Independence, and the proud flags were hoisted across every home in the city, the residents of Asha’s slum community in Yamuna riverbed; -one of the poorest, most vulnerable and deprived population in the heart of the capital city was facing the worst survival crises of their lives. As a result of torrential rains and flooding of the river Yamuna, the water level crossed the danger mark and entered the shanties of people in the low line areas of the river. Their little belongings, painstakingly accumulated over the years were washed away in just a few minutes. Not only were their entire household items destroyed, but water damaged their one-room shanties as the floors and the walls of the houses were made of mud, and roofs made of waste materials like discarded plastic, scrap, etc. Overnight, around three thousand people were rendered homeless, without food, shelter, or finances and surrounded by suffering, darkness and despair. Having lost everything and without any roadmap to build their future amidst the ruins of destruction, Asha was the only silver lining of hope in their lives. Asha’s team immediately reached them with all the available resources and gave them a healing touch, mental strength and comfort.
Asha’s emergency relief and rehabilitation programme started with the distribution of food packets, including wheat flour, two types of pulses, edible oils, spices, fruits, vegetables, eggs and biscuits, to feed their hunger with a balanced nutritional diet. After ensuring that everyone had enough to eat, Asha’s Healthcare team started the medical clinics to take care of the diseases, especially water-borne bacterial and viral infections, which are quite common after such natural disasters. Asha’s Senior Nurse Practitioners conducted clinics and provided treatment, medicines, and supplements to children, women, elderly, and the sick. The children were given high protein, high calorie and high energy laddoos to fight malnutrition. Asha team also gave them towels, bed sheets, suits, sarees and other items of daily wear and everyday use, as the community started the process of rebuilding their homes and restarting their life from scratch. There is still a long way to go as many of the families lost everything. However, Asha’s presence has given the community reassurance, comfort and strength to fight the challenges and, most importantly, look to the future with renewed optimism.
Asha’s emergency relief and rehabilitation programme started with the distribution of food packets, including wheat flour, two types of pulses, edible oils, spices, fruits, vegetables, eggs and biscuits, to feed their hunger with a balanced nutritional diet. After ensuring that everyone had enough to eat, Asha’s Healthcare team started the medical clinics to take care of the diseases, especially water-borne bacterial and viral infections, which are quite common after such natural disasters. Asha’s Senior Nurse Practitioners conducted clinics and provided treatment, medicines, and supplements to children, women, elderly, and the sick. The children were given high protein, high calorie and high energy laddoos to fight malnutrition. Asha team also gave them towels, bed sheets, suits, sarees and other items of daily wear and everyday use, as the community started the process of rebuilding their homes and restarting their life from scratch. There is still a long way to go as many of the families lost everything. However, Asha’s presence has given the community reassurance, comfort and strength to fight the challenges and, most importantly, look to the future with renewed optimism.
Asha Emergency Response at Riverbed Slum Community
The overflowing of River Yamuna has caused havoc in the lives of slum dwellers living on the riverbed. Overnight the huts made of mud, cane, grass and plastic sheet were destroyed. Many of the residents lost all their possessions. Asha immediately acted and provided them with food rations and other utility items. Asha is daily providing nutritious food to the children and organising health clinics. There is a long way to go, and Asha will continue to provide for their needs. Please help us to help them.
Here is the Link for the video:https://bit.ly/3AJOYrm
Here is the Link for the video:https://bit.ly/3AJOYrm
Dr Kiran Speaks at Parliament House, NSW
The Hon Scott Farlow MLC, Government Whip in the Legislative Council of the New South Wales Government, hosted a lunch at Parliament House in honor of Dr. Kiran. Sunil and Shikha Lal were the primary organizers, and they invited people from academia, business, the education sector, banks, and various other entities. The spouse of the Counsul General of India, Nimeesha Gupta, was also present. There was great excitement, enthusiasm, and offers of help to Asha after Dr. Kiran gave her speech and Tushar told his story. It was truly a day to remember. Thank you The Hon Scott Farlow, Sunil and Shikha Lal, and the other organizers for making such a wonderful event possible.
Dr Kiran meets Shemara Wikramanayake, CEO of Macquarie Group, in Sydney
Dr. Kiran and Tushar had the immense pleasure of meeting with Shemara Wikramanayake CEO of Macquarie Group at their offices in Sydney. The partnership between Macquarie and Asha has been a long-standing one. Other senior members of the Macquarie team were also present. They were thrilled to hear the story of Tushar narrating his life events from the slums of Delhi to the halls of Sydney University. We discussed many future ideas of engaging together for the benefit of the slum students.
Dr Kiran visits Centre for English Teaching, University of Sydney
Dr. Kiran had the opportunity to meet with Katherine Olston, Director of the Centre for English Teaching, and Ward Lee, Deputy Director of Operations, to discuss the possibilities of providing Asha prospective international students with academic English learning prior to the commencement of their Master programs. Both partners recognized that the ability of our students to enroll in this program would be critical to their success. Thank you, Centre for English Teaching for this most important discussion, and for your willingness to help.
Dr Kiran Meets Mr Maurice Newman AC
Dr. Kiran had the honor of meeting an eminent Australian personality, Mr. Maurice Newman AC. He has served in a range of public roles, including as Chairperson of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, chair of the board of the Australian Stock Exchange, Chancellor of Macquarie University, and a member of the Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Council. It was a productive meeting with Mr. Newman promising wide-ranging support to Asha.
St. Paul’s College, University of Sidney, receives Dr Kiran
Message from Tushar Joshi, Asha student- ‘Dr. Kiran was taken for a tour of St Paul’s College, reputed to be one of the finest residential colleges in Australia. What a great privilege it has been for me to be living in this college and doing my Master of International Relations, after having spent all my life in the slums of Delhi. I thank from my heart Dr. Kiran and Dean Antone for this wonderful opportunity.’
The University of Sydney Hosts Dr Kiran
Message from Tushar Joshi, Asha Student doing Masters of International Relation at the University of Sydney – ‘It was a great pleasure for the University of Sydney to host Dr. Kiran Martin, Founder Director of Asha, on Aug 22. She spoke about the work of Asha to a gathering of senior university officials, faculty, and students. I had the great opportunity to share my story as well.
The USYD is keen to receive several future students from Asha in the coming years as a part of the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship. It was an exciting day for Dr. Kiran and me, to celebrate our existing relationship and to make plans for the future.
Thank you the University of Sydney for hosting Dr Kiran.’
The USYD is keen to receive several future students from Asha in the coming years as a part of the Sydney Scholars India Equity Scholarship. It was an exciting day for Dr. Kiran and me, to celebrate our existing relationship and to make plans for the future.
Thank you the University of Sydney for hosting Dr Kiran.’
Dr Kathy Jenkins, Pediatric Cardiologist, Harvard Medical School, Visits Asha
Dr Kathy Jenkins, a pediatric cardiologist from Harvard Medical School and Raina Cohen, an undergraduate from Harvard, paid a visit to Asha. After a brief orientation at the Head Office and viewing the photo exhibition, the visitors were taken to the Kalkaji centre.
They were warmly greeted by the Asha team led by the Supervisor and Senior Nurse Practitioner. They first saw the Healthcare services provided to the community residents. They keenly observed the different patient cards and were highly impressed by the services provided to the vulnerable and needy with utmost care and compassion. They were also briefed about Asha’s Emergency Covid Response Programme and how it saved thousands of lives during the multiple waves of the pandemic, along with providing socio-economic and mental health support. The empowered ladies of Asha’s Mahila Mandal (Ladies Group) narrated their life stories on how they changed their destinies with Asha’s support and became a partner in progress in community welfare and development programmes. This was followed by a lively QA session with the ladies and the visitors.
Dr Kathy and Raina then visited the IT Lab, which has become a lifeline for the Asha students in these challenging times and also visited the Library and Resource Centre with rich collection of books, magazines and study materials which plays a crucial role in inculcating reading habits amongst the children in the community and enhancing their knowledge. The final leg of the visit was the interaction with the brilliant Asha students, who articulated their powerful stories of transformation and change through Education. We would like to thank Dr Kathy and Raina for their visit and spending time with the Asha family.
They were warmly greeted by the Asha team led by the Supervisor and Senior Nurse Practitioner. They first saw the Healthcare services provided to the community residents. They keenly observed the different patient cards and were highly impressed by the services provided to the vulnerable and needy with utmost care and compassion. They were also briefed about Asha’s Emergency Covid Response Programme and how it saved thousands of lives during the multiple waves of the pandemic, along with providing socio-economic and mental health support. The empowered ladies of Asha’s Mahila Mandal (Ladies Group) narrated their life stories on how they changed their destinies with Asha’s support and became a partner in progress in community welfare and development programmes. This was followed by a lively QA session with the ladies and the visitors.
Dr Kathy and Raina then visited the IT Lab, which has become a lifeline for the Asha students in these challenging times and also visited the Library and Resource Centre with rich collection of books, magazines and study materials which plays a crucial role in inculcating reading habits amongst the children in the community and enhancing their knowledge. The final leg of the visit was the interaction with the brilliant Asha students, who articulated their powerful stories of transformation and change through Education. We would like to thank Dr Kathy and Raina for their visit and spending time with the Asha family.
Short Video on Dr Kiran’s Visit to Zakhira Slum Community
It was a wonderful and blessed moment for everyone in the Asha slum at Zakhira when Dr Kiran paid a visit to the community. The Asha team and the community members warmly welcomed her as she met the children, women, youth and men. Dr Kiran talked to everyone individually and instantly created a bonding of warmth, affection and assurance.. Her presence mesmerized all those she met and made them comfortable, and they felt touched as they narrated their life stories to Dr Kiran. The spontaneous emotional connect was evident as she hugged the young children, including toddlers, embraced the women, blessed the young adults to dream big, and connected with the men and related to their day-to-day challenges. She also enquired from everybody about their health and wellbeing.
As Dr Kiran washed the feet of elderlies in the community, she reflected on their suffering as they were forbidden and forsaken in their life. Tears rolled down their eyes as they were overwhelmed with emotions. Dr Kiran demonstrated the power of love and compassion in caring for the elderly in the spirit of servanthood. This was a memorable day for everyone in the slum community, and Dr Kiran set an example for others to follow.
Here is the link for the video: https://bit.ly/3wo5Ils
As Dr Kiran washed the feet of elderlies in the community, she reflected on their suffering as they were forbidden and forsaken in their life. Tears rolled down their eyes as they were overwhelmed with emotions. Dr Kiran demonstrated the power of love and compassion in caring for the elderly in the spirit of servanthood. This was a memorable day for everyone in the slum community, and Dr Kiran set an example for others to follow.
Here is the link for the video: https://bit.ly/3wo5Ils
Asha strives to ensure Life in its Fullness to the Poor and Needy
We are looking for the poor and the suffering in every corner of our communities, and serving them with great tenderness and compassion. May we bring healing to their heartaches, their broken spirits, their sad and lonely lives. May the touch they long for bring them healing and redemption during their final years.
Sitaram, an Abandoned Elderly from Mayapuri Slum, receives deep affection and homely care at Asha
My name is Sitaram. I am 78 years old. I have been living in Mayapuri slum for over 50 years. All my 4 children have turned their backs on me and never come to ask about how I am doing. I am an old man, and today I beg on the streets because otherwise I will starve. I was leading a lonely and sad life till I started coming to Asha. I felt a sense of belonging for the first time in my life. Here I receive so much love and respect, sometimes I just weep. I look forward to my nutritious and delicious meal everyday. I am a patient of Hypertension. Since being treated at the Asha clinic, my BP is under control. I give my many blessings to Dr Kiran and pray that God grants her good health always. May all of us enfold them with a love that will fill their hearts and satisfy their souls. May they be set free from all forms of bondage and be made whole through the redemptive and delivering power of love.
Shanti, an 80 year-old Dalit Untouchable, finds True Love at Asha
My name is Shanti and I am 80 years old. I am from a Dalit untouchable caste and all my life I have been cleaning toilets and picking up garbage from peoples’ homes. I have always been shunned and humiliated by the upper castes. I have 5 children but all of them have left me. None of them care for me. My husband died 20 years ago. I now come to the Asha Centre everyday and I am treated with great love. I eat a nutritious meal and spend time talking to other elderly people and the Asha family members. I get treated at the Asha clinic for all my ailments. Nobody has ever loved me like this. I now feel I am not alone anymore. I feel happy here. I am grateful from my heart for the love you are showing me.
Ramwati, a Victim of Untouchability enjoys being Loved and Cared
This is a narration from a 65 year old Dalit woman called Ramwati. Dalits in India are also known as untouchables. They are caste out from society and in the villages, they are only allowed to clean toilets. Ramwati says that when she lived in her village, she was given the work of cleaning the toilet in the home of the Head of an upper caste. The rule was that even her shadow was not allowed to fall on him. If it accidentally did, he would abuse and insult her, because he had to take the trouble of purifying himself by bathing and cleaning his body before he could enter his home. She was not even allowed to sit on a mat outside the toilet. That is how she spent most of her years, so numbed to love and acceptance, having known only humiliation. When she was invited to the Asha center in her slum where she has been living for some time, she would sit in a corner far away from everyone else. She could not bring herself to sit on a mat. As time went on, the love and compassion of the Asha family brought her into the fold, washing her feet and embracing her as a sister. May she experience true and pure love from us, and may the wounds she has suffered from all her life be healed. Her story made me weep with great sorrow, and then my heart was filled with the light of great hope, Asha.
The University of Queensland Team motivates the Asha Higher Education Students to dream and strive high
Asha was delighted to host the University of Queensland Team, Mr Rongyu Li, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Global Engagement), Mr Brett Lovegrove, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Partnerships), Prof. Heather Zwicker, Executive Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Helen Klaebe, Dean, GraduateSchool and Ms Thoa Harring, Manager, Strategy and Partnerships, Global Strategy and Partnerships, Global Partnerships at its Headquarters on 5th August 2022.
After the cordial welcome and the introductory conversation with the Asha team, they interacted with the Asha graduates and college students. The graduates and the students shared their life challenges in the slum communities and their education journey with Asha’s support receiving academic counselling, university-related expenses, IT Lab facilities, internships in prestigious institutions and spoken English classes. Students also shared how Asha is helping them to prepare for International Higher Education. The team was highly impressed to hear the achievements of our students and motivated them to dream and strive high to bring a change.
After the cordial welcome and the introductory conversation with the Asha team, they interacted with the Asha graduates and college students. The graduates and the students shared their life challenges in the slum communities and their education journey with Asha’s support receiving academic counselling, university-related expenses, IT Lab facilities, internships in prestigious institutions and spoken English classes. Students also shared how Asha is helping them to prepare for International Higher Education. The team was highly impressed to hear the achievements of our students and motivated them to dream and strive high to bring a change.
Washing the feet of the Elderly-the highest Expression of Humility and Servanthood
Our finance head and nurse practitioner washing the feet of the poor. How beautiful are their hands the tender touch of which is filled with love. How wonderful is their spirit of servanthood and humility!
Asha Serves the bedridden Elderly at the Delhi Slums with Love
So many elderly are bed ridden for some reason; the team and warriors visit them daily with food and lovingly take care of their needs. The warriors express great joy at this opportunity to serve those they look upon as their grandparents.
The elderly enjoy nutritious meal at Asha Slum Support Centers
The elderly eagerly wait for the Asha centers to open in the morning, and come everyday to have a nutritious meal served with much love and respect.
Asha center becomes a Source of Love and Comfort for the abandoned Elderly
“We have never got so much love from any one our whole lives,” said Shanti, who has been abandoned by her family.
The Elderly in Delhi Slums experience the healing power of Love
Raw wounds and trauma of years are slowly being healed by the outpouring of love and tenderness.
Frequent touch is an essential element for overall well-being
These women said no one had touched them for years. They have been suffering deeply from tactile deprivation.
The Power of Love to make Strong Bonds in People
Strangers become brothers through the power of love and tenderness. Bonds can be stronger than blood.
The language of touch, the best way to express real feelings
Sometimes only the language of touch can fully express what we feel. May we cherish the joys of this language forever.
Tender embraces, the best remedy to heal the wounds of the abandoned
The raw and deep wounds of the abandoned are slowly healed with tenderness. May tenderness pour from our eyes and our embrace. May they go home in peace.
Saurabh from Kusumpur Pahari Slum Scores 91.5% in School end Exam
Well done Saurabh. We at Asha are so proud of you. Saurabh, a resident of Asha’s Kusumpur Pahari slum community has scored 91.5% in national school end exam with 95% in chemistry, 91% in Physics and 92% in English.
Asha practices Hugs as an Expression of Fraternity
Hugs make us feel like sisters and brothers. They are like yeast, fermenting a fraternity of brotherhood and peace everywhere. Let’s all give each other brotherly and sisterly embraces as we walk on life’s journey.
MLA Visits Asha Centre in Anna Nagar
The Asha family welcomes MLA Praveen Kumar to their community. They garlanded him, gave him a gratitude card, and sincerely thanked him for all his services to their community. Thereafter they explained the problem of severe water shortage in these summer months. He took immediate action and ordered extra pipelines. How wonderful when gratitude and warmth open the hearts of people, and they are always ready to help and do what it takes to solve their problems.
The CanAssist Society Team Visits Asha
A three-member team from Can Assist comprising of Ms Jacklyn Quinlan- Co-President Can Assist, Claude Rochon- Director of Communication, and Katherine De Visser- Point Person for Asha India visited Asha on 18th June’2022. After a welcome at the Asha head office and polyclinic, they were explained about the Asha interventions in areas of Healthcare, Empowerment, Land Rights, and Education, including Internship and Mentorship, Financial Inclusion, Environment and Infrastructure by taking them through a photo exhibition. They were also explained the timeline and the chronological sequence and how Dr Kiran’s vision became a model of development which transformed the lives of millions of slum dwellers and received international recognition. Asha students, including prospective students for the international higher education programme, shared their life stories and how education through Asha’s support became a game-changer in their lives.
A tour of the polyclinic followed the interactions. They Can Assist team also went for a field trip to an Asha community at Dr Ambedkar Basti to give them a feel of the programme interventions. The team leader and the students welcomed them at the first centre. The Can Assist team interacted with the students and women and saw the clinic being run in the community. The team also visited the Asha IT centre utilized by slum students for their academics. The students also narrated their activities as Corona warriors and how they helped their community to overcome the challenges during the multiple waves of the stressful pandemic.
Thank you, team, from Can Assist, for visiting Asha, and we look forward to strengthening the relationship further.
A tour of the polyclinic followed the interactions. They Can Assist team also went for a field trip to an Asha community at Dr Ambedkar Basti to give them a feel of the programme interventions. The team leader and the students welcomed them at the first centre. The Can Assist team interacted with the students and women and saw the clinic being run in the community. The team also visited the Asha IT centre utilized by slum students for their academics. The students also narrated their activities as Corona warriors and how they helped their community to overcome the challenges during the multiple waves of the stressful pandemic.
Thank you, team, from Can Assist, for visiting Asha, and we look forward to strengthening the relationship further.
Suzannah Jessep, Director of Asia New Zealand Foundation visits Asha
We at Asha were delighted to welcome an old friend Suzannah Jessep on 15th June. Suzannah, Director of Asia New Zealand Foundation, spent time interacting with Asha graduates and college students and was amazed to hear their journey and work as Corona warriors during the pandemic. She was also happy to know that despite a break for a year, the internship had resumed. Suzannah worked very closely with Dr Kiran to expand the internship Programme to diplomatic missions during her tenure as Deputy High Commissioner at New Zealand High Commission in Delhi.
Thank you, Suzannah, for taking time out of your busy schedule, and we hope to strengthen our relationship with Asia New Zealand Foundation in the future.
Thank you, Suzannah, for taking time out of your busy schedule, and we hope to strengthen our relationship with Asia New Zealand Foundation in the future.
Macquarie Internship for the year 2022
One of the most anticipated programmes for the Asha students, the Macquarie Internship for the year 2022, started on the 13th of June’2022. Twenty girls and boys were selected for this Internship programme based on rigorous selection criteria. After a detailed Onboarding process which took more than two weeks of intensive interaction with Team Macquarie, there was an orientation
programme for the selected Asha students. This year it was decided that the Internship will be organised in a hybrid model with three days of online Internship at Asha IT Labs and two days onsite at the Macquarie office in Gurugram. However, few students have been asked to visit the Macquarie office regularly and get exposure to onsite working across various departments. Another notable feature of this year’s programme was that the Internship programme was organised in the Philippines and India, providing the students with rich international exposure and the natural feel of working in a cross-cultural environment. The selected Interns will also get the opportunity to meet the Senior Management team of Macquarie.
The programme schedule for the Internship includes corporate workplace skills, ethics and values in the corporate world, time management skills, and how to build a personal brand and maintain work-life balance. After the orientation, the interns learnt about Macquarie’s history and discovered Macquarie Workplace on Facebook. There was also an activity on life’s transformation from college to the corporate world.
Thank you, Mr Sandeep Bhatia- Country Head India, Mr Manish Desai- Head of Macquarie Gurugram Office and the team of Macquarie Foundation, for providing this invaluable and enriching exposure to the Asha students as a stepping stone to the International corporate workplace environment.
programme for the selected Asha students. This year it was decided that the Internship will be organised in a hybrid model with three days of online Internship at Asha IT Labs and two days onsite at the Macquarie office in Gurugram. However, few students have been asked to visit the Macquarie office regularly and get exposure to onsite working across various departments. Another notable feature of this year’s programme was that the Internship programme was organised in the Philippines and India, providing the students with rich international exposure and the natural feel of working in a cross-cultural environment. The selected Interns will also get the opportunity to meet the Senior Management team of Macquarie.
The programme schedule for the Internship includes corporate workplace skills, ethics and values in the corporate world, time management skills, and how to build a personal brand and maintain work-life balance. After the orientation, the interns learnt about Macquarie’s history and discovered Macquarie Workplace on Facebook. There was also an activity on life’s transformation from college to the corporate world.
Thank you, Mr Sandeep Bhatia- Country Head India, Mr Manish Desai- Head of Macquarie Gurugram Office and the team of Macquarie Foundation, for providing this invaluable and enriching exposure to the Asha students as a stepping stone to the International corporate workplace environment.
Asha Alumni organized at Asha Head Office
After a long break because of Covid-19, an Asha Alumni meet was organised on 11th June’2022 at the Asha HQ. There was laughter and excitement when more than fifty bright young boys and girls who have built promising careers in multi-national corporates and other world-class organisations in responsible positions met each other. After the initial euphoria and nostalgia of meeting each other after a long time, there was a catch-up, and everyone went for a trip down the memory lane and exchanged notes on their journey so far. The business end of the meeting started with a small introduction given by each alumnus sharing information about their organisation, work, experiences and the professional excellence they have gained with the support of Asha.
The alumni members gave several constructive ideas on how they can contribute to enriching future Asha students’ lives with their experience and skills. Many Alumni members self-volunteered to sponsor higher education of at least 1-2 students in their communities and teach them the Asha values. It was decided that each Alumnus will open a small chapter of Alumni in their respective communities and conduct activities to enhance the impact and reach. There was also a suggestion from some Alumni members that they will connect with younger students and mentor them in English speaking, soft skills training, Career Guidance and Personality Development. Finally, all the Alumni members shared lunch and a round of fun-filled games, which they enjoyed. It was decided that the Alumni meet will be a regular feature in Asha’s programme calendar.
The alumni members gave several constructive ideas on how they can contribute to enriching future Asha students’ lives with their experience and skills. Many Alumni members self-volunteered to sponsor higher education of at least 1-2 students in their communities and teach them the Asha values. It was decided that each Alumnus will open a small chapter of Alumni in their respective communities and conduct activities to enhance the impact and reach. There was also a suggestion from some Alumni members that they will connect with younger students and mentor them in English speaking, soft skills training, Career Guidance and Personality Development. Finally, all the Alumni members shared lunch and a round of fun-filled games, which they enjoyed. It was decided that the Alumni meet will be a regular feature in Asha’s programme calendar.
Central Universities Entrance Test (CUET) registration at Asha slum communities
A new and worrisome development has taken place in the Delhi University admissions process. Previous admissions were on the basis of marks obtained in the school leaving board exam. That has all changed. There will now be a separate Central Universities Entrance Test (CUET) the results of which will determine the admission of a student. The registration process for this test is really quite complicated and it is virtually impossible for a year 12 student from a slum to complete such a complex application on their own. The registration fee is also high. The deadline for the registration is May 22. Thereafter the students will have to receive separate coaching for this entrance exam. The pattern is new, and none of us knows enough about it. We will have to find new ways of coaching our students and getting them exam ready. At the moment they are focusing on the board exam. They can only begin preparing for CUET when those are over.
At this time, CUET registrations are going on in all Asha communities. There is a lot of resistance from students and parents. Students feel too afraid and insecure about preparing to attempt for this new exam. Asha has paid the full registration fees for almost all the students. These are separate from the university fees that will need to be paid every year once the students are in. The Asha team and I are quite worried about the uncertainties related to this process. We are hoping that we can enable our students to shine in this new exam!
At this time, CUET registrations are going on in all Asha communities. There is a lot of resistance from students and parents. Students feel too afraid and insecure about preparing to attempt for this new exam. Asha has paid the full registration fees for almost all the students. These are separate from the university fees that will need to be paid every year once the students are in. The Asha team and I are quite worried about the uncertainties related to this process. We are hoping that we can enable our students to shine in this new exam!
Visit of MAMC-1977 Batch to Asha’s Mayapuri Centre
It was a memorable day for the Asha family when Dr Kiran’s batchmates from Maulana Azad Medical College- 1977 batch; eminent doctors in their respective areas of specialization visited Asha’s Mayapuri centre on 23rd April’2022.
Governing board member of Australian Friends of Asha visits Chanderpuri with his team
Hello everyone, what a wonderful day it was today. Our dearly beloved Harish Rao, a long time friend and governing board member of Friends of Asha Australia brought along 3 of his Australian friends Phil, Chris and Adam, to Asha’s Chanderpuri center this afternoon.
They braved the heat, and spent a wonderful time engaging with the members not only of Chanderpuri, but many other Asha slum communities within a radius of about 5km, where we carry out various programs.
Among many other members, they met prospective students who Asha has begun preparing to go to Australia in the coming two years.
They braved the heat, and spent a wonderful time engaging with the members not only of Chanderpuri, but many other Asha slum communities within a radius of about 5km, where we carry out various programs.
Among many other members, they met prospective students who Asha has begun preparing to go to Australia in the coming two years.
THE HON LISA SINGH, PAST SENATOR IN THE AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT (LABOUR PARTY) VISITS ASHA SLUM COMMUNITY
We had the joy of receiving The Hon Lisa Singh, past Senator in the Australian parliament( Labour Party), and CEO of Australia India Institute, University of Melbourne, visit us today. She enthusiastically engaged with the residents of Seelampur, one of the most impoverished slums in the city. She is inspired and excited to help Asha in a number of ways, and we had discussions on possibilities over lunch. The primary goal of Australia India Institute is to strengthen ties between the two countries in multiple sectors.
Dr Bhavdeep Gupta visits Asha
Hello everyone, we received our first visitor to Asha on 14th March after 2 years! Dr Bhavdeep Gupta is my friend from medical school days and now lives in the US. There was much joy as the Seelampur Team welcomed him with warmth, and shared their stories with him. We are hoping that you will begin to make your way to Delhi soon and visit us. We look forward very much to receiving you.
Motivating the slum students for University admission- Changing Life’s destiny
Sitting in the slum lanes on the ground and motivating school leaving students to work hard for university admissions. There are many Asha communities where there is no building. What a wonderful commitment!!