Community Insights
Hajra Jamil
BSS Main Campus Abbottabad
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How did it all begin?
I grew up in a society where I saw all types of people around me, people who belonged from different socioeconomic backgrounds, races, culture etc. Coming this far in life, being privileged, I always felt as if there was something that had to be returned back to the society, to a place I call my home. On the last trip to my village, I got the opportunity to meet all the children and I was mesmerized by seeing their potential. Honestly, that was the first time in my life I had seen raw talent that desperately needed attention, and was thirsty for being nurtured. Apparently ,they had the opportunity to go to school and get educated, but, despite having this facility they were unable to showcase and enhance their talents due to the hindrances faced. As we all know our language differs from what a child in public school learns, in terms of the vocabulary and the restricted code they practice( Basil Bernstein). Seeing that all those children had some ability which they had to find within themselves, I volunteered to help all those underprivileged children through their schooling. Only because of this one small step I’m taking today within my community, my village ,tomorrow I’ll be able to extend it globally.” Though right now I cannot be as great as Edhi, but, I can always try to be one taking a small step that matters.Knowing that education is a basic right but if you are given that right without other supporting resources you really can’t do anything. Also, some children belonging from such rural areas need a push to motivate themselves to work to achieve their desired goals. Getting new things that you take to school or resources that help you practice your talent work as strong motivating factors. I have taken a start of this project from my village because I feel as if it’s a matter of pride, if all children from there graduate from one of the top institutions in the world, if I help them push behind the social disparity that is tied to their life;one day they will be able to witness all those achievements and acceptances we see in our lives. We as individuals should create opportunities for others rather than create differences.
The Journey
In the start of 2021 I started with the idea of this project. After collecting myself from these thoughts. I created my art pieces for an exhibition (book marks) and carried out these sales.Initially I sold my bookmarks to my family members and later on in this July extended these to my friends, teachers and administrators in school. This initiative gained high praise and support by school head and Cluster convener who not only encouraged me to carry out the sales for fundraising within the school, but also guided me to turn it into a more meaningful endeavor. After collection of a desired amount of money, I brought some basic stationery items, math and Urdu learning books for class 1 and 2. After having a comprehensive and detailed meeting with the staff of Government Girls Elementary School Chak 50 ,I made small gift hampers consisting of things that are normally considered inaccessible for the children of such vicinitines or localities.
The impact
The satisfied and content faces was the impact that convinced me to extend it further to other rural areas that still need attention. Children not only gained the confidence but also immediately started using these materials in productive activities.Children with specific defined talents like: art and craft, sports,etc talked about how a little help with these resources would help them achieve their dream. Though these little tokens made a little difference to narrow the social gaps, however I am confident that my further contributions will lead these socially deprived towards their dreams and wishes. The aim of such an initiative is to bridge the social and financial divide that broadens the disparity. Although it might be a very small step,still,a step taken in the right direction makes a remarkable difference.
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