Growing up as a girl can be confusing, stressful, and downright scary at times, and that’s pervasive across the globe. In India, starting from a young age, many girls become accustomed to a life of discrimination in education, social aspects, health care, and so on. Baale Mane is an independent trust which gives young girls the opportunity to learn, grow, and flourish in every aspect of their lives.
We’re dedicated to supporting Baale Mane, so more young girls can live happier, more successful lives by having the personal and academic support they deserve. Read on to learn about one of the incredible women that will benefit from our Campus Expansion project at Baale Mane.
This is Banu,* who recently celebrated Eid with her Baale Mane sisters by preparing her favourite dish, chicken biryani!
Banu was referred to Baale 7 years ago by an organisation working in the slums with sex worker communities. Her father had left her and her mother, who had been suffering from AIDs for a long time, to fend for themselves. Banu’s mother became unable to care for Banu or to provide her with a safe place to live. Since then, Baale Mane has provided opportunities for her to have a bright future ahead.
Banu is now studying in 2nd PUC, and is doing well at college as well as in the extracurricular activities and life skill sessions that are held at Baale Mane. She is one of our team leaders and cares for her team of younger girls with enthusiasm and love.
An Ablaze Heart Through Dark Times
Sadly, her mother passed away earlier in the year. Through all of this, however, Banu has always been a ray of sunshine for everyone at Baale Mane. Bright, energetic, happy, and very bold, she is one of the warmest of characters who loves to interact with all the visitors and supporters of Baale Mane. Banu is passionate about dance, caring for others, and food, and is also our reigning Kabbadi (a South Indian sport played at school) champion!
Before and after school, she can generally be found in the Baale Mane kitchen helping the staff with meal preparations and she also leads the weekly menu plan at the home.
Banu would like to train to become a lawyer in the future, and is currently studying very hard to make this dream a reality.
If you would like to help make Banu’s dreams become a reality, and many other beautiful girls in India, please donate to our Baale Mane Campus Expansion Program!
*Name has been changed in the interest of the girl’s safety