"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Dreams

Positive Reads

Crafting Dreams: Empowering Rural Talent on Fashion's Grand Stage

The Grand Hyatt in Gurgaon was recently enlivened by the breathtaking designs of Rural Talent at Times Lifestyle Week. This year's highlight was an extraordinary exhibition by "Dream Weavers," a group of six remarkably talented girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, adopted and nurtured by the M3M Foundation. Trained by the prestigious boutique salon "Jaipuri Banno," a traditional fashion and lifestyle brand based in Jaipur, these young designers showcased their stunning textile and apparel creations. The exhibition was part of "Crafting Dreams," a collaborative project organized by the FICCI YFLO Delhi Chapter and M3M Foundation, aimed at promoting rural talent in the fashion industry. Hailing from Tauru town in the ambitious Nuh, Haryana area, these young designers embarked on their first venture beyond their communities. Their stunning designs, ranging from designer sarees and angrakhas to anarkalis, skirts, and coord sets, earned them the prestigious opportunity to grace the stage at Times Lifestyle Week alongside some of the nation's top designers. During her speech at the occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia, the Chairperson of FICCI YFLO Delhi and a Trustee of M3M Foundation, expressed her deep enthusiasm for the inventiveness, grace, and beauty displayed by the younger designers. Dr. Kanodia emphasized that the partnership signifies an important objective aligned with the principles of social entrepreneurship and sustainability. From the outset, the aim has been to seamlessly integrate these girls into the industry, equipping them with essential tools and training to enhance their self-esteem and guide them towards a brighter future. Dr. Kanodia remarked that this stage marks the fulfillment of a longstanding objective, serving as a fitting culmination to a program deserving of further scalability under the auspices of the M3M Foundation. (Source: Google Images)  She extended heartfelt gratitude to Neetu Mahajan and the entire team at Jaipuri Banno for their invaluable mentorship and support in facilitating this remarkable achievement. Dr. Kanodia reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of FICCI YFLO Delhi and M3M Foundation to continue nurturing not only these girls but also countless other budding talents in the days ahead. Richa, representing the cohort of young aspiring designers from “Dream Weavers,” conveyed her profound appreciation on behalf of her peers, stating, “We are profoundly grateful to FICCI YFLO Delhi, M3M Foundation, and Jaipuri Banno for the unwavering support we have received. This opportunity has been truly transformative for us.” The event promised to be a jubilant celebration of talent, creativity, and empowerment, underscoring the profound impact of opportunity and mentorship within the fashion industry!

31 May 2024
Positive Reads

Star Citizens

Triumph Beyond Trials: Jyothi Reddy's Extraordinary Rise from Poverty to Prosperity

From earning a mere Rs 5 a day to becoming the owner of a multimillion-dollar company, Jyoti Reddy’s journey is evidence of her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. She was born in 1970 in the bustling city of Warangal, the second child in a family of five siblings. Her journey began with adversity, as her father, Venkata Reddy, left her and her younger sister in a semi-orphanage when she was just nine years old. It was a harsh reality she had to face, yet she refused to let it define her spirit. Life in the orphanage was arduous, devoid of basic amenities, but it was here that Jyothi learned the value of resilience. Despite the hardships, she pursued vocational skills like tailoring and immersed herself in household chores alongside the orphanage superintendent. Each day, she remained unshaken by the trials she faced. Jyoti was married off at the tender age of sixteen to Sami Reddy, a farmer. With just half an acre of land to their name, the couple struggled to make ends meet, with Jyothi earning a meager Rs 5 for ten hours of labor in the fields. Yet, amidst the toil and poverty, Jyothi harbored dreams of a better life, a life she was determined to carve out for herself. Opportunity knocked when she volunteered for the Central Government's Nehru Yuva Kendra scheme, where she began teaching. However, the paltry earnings were insufficient, prompting her to take up sewing at night to supplement her income. Despite the challenges, she never wavered in her pursuit of education, completing her BA from Dr. BR Ambedkar Open University while working tirelessly to support her family. Jyoti then took up a job as a special teacher, despite the grueling two-hour daily commute. Yet, even in those moments of respite, Jyothi seized every opportunity, selling sarees to her fellow travelers to increase her income.  The turning point came when she dared to dream beyond the confines of her circumstances. Inspired by her cousin's tales of opportunity in the United States, Jyothi embarked on a journey fueled by hope and determination. Against all odds, she saved diligently, honed her skills in computer software, and defied societal norms to pursue her dreams. In 2001, armed with a relentless spirit, Jyothi set foot on American soil, ready to embrace the challenges that lay ahead. Her initial days were fraught with hardship as she navigated odd jobs to sustain herself and her family. Yet, she persisted and eventually secured a job in CS America. That laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey. She founded Key Software Solution Inc. with her hard-earned savings, igniting a flame of entrepreneurship that would soon blaze into a roaring fire of success. Through grit, determination, and an unwavering belief in herself, Jyothi turned her fledgling company into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, employing over a hundred individuals and transforming lives in the process. Born into poverty, Jyothi faced numerous hardships, including abandonment, early marriage, and relentless struggle. However, she refused to succumb to her circumstances and pursued her dreams with unwavering determination. Through sheer hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to never giving up, Jyothi transformed her life from one of scarcity to abundance, inspiring countless others along the way.

26 Feb 2024
Star Citizens

From Poverty to Podium: Ram Baboo's Path to Asian Games Glory

In the heart of Uttar Pradesh's impoverished village, a resilient story of determination and dreams was unfolding. Ram Baboo, the son of a daily wage laborer, found inspiration amidst adversity. He watched the 2012 Olympics, his eyes fixed on heroes like Mary Kom and Sushil Kumar, igniting a spark within him. With a family struggling to make ends meet, young Baboo joined Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya. Though studies weren't his forte, he discovered a passion for sports, especially long-distance running. From marathons to 5000m races, he relentlessly pursued his goal. Guided by a local coach, he found his true calling in race walking. Despite facing challenges and even working as a waiter to fund his training, Baboo's spirit remained unbroken. He left no stone unturned, even joining Facebook fitness groups to seek help. Shifting to the 35km event, he made waves in the National Open Championships and secured a spot at the national camp. Winning gold and breaking records, Baboo's talent caught the eye of the Army. He became a havildar, bringing financial stability to his family. In the recently concluded Asian Games, Ram Baboo shone bright with the 35km race walk mixed team bronze medal. With this medal in the country's most remarkable Asian Games performance to date, his dream of earning accolades for his nation became a reality.  Ram Baboo’s inspiring journey showcased that with determination and relentless effort, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their aspirations.

9 Oct 2023
Star Citizens

72-Year-Old Yoga Exponent Defies Age Conventions, Inspires with Gold Medal Win

In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, Kakarla Umamaheswara Rao, a 72-year-old yoga exponent from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, has shattered age barriers and emerged victorious at the Universal Yoga Sports Federation (UYSF) Asia Pacific Yoga Sports Championship 2023 held in Bangkok.  Rao, who had been an active participant in yoga during his younger years, was forced to pause his practice due to the demands of a busy life and job. However, a transformative experience at a yoga camp in Visakhapatnam in 1992 reignited his passion for yoga. After attending the camp and witnessing the disappearance of his severe migraines, he incorporated yoga into his daily routine once again. Dedicating a minimum of two hours to yoga practice every day, Rao has not only experienced mental and physical benefits but has also achieved remarkable success in various yoga competitions across the country. With nearly 60 medals to his name, he has become an inspiration to many. What sets Rao apart is not his focus on winning competitions, but his sheer participation and unwavering commitment to yoga. As a 72-year-old actively engaged in yoga, he has traveled across the country, leaving a lasting impact on people who witness his dedication. Rao attributes his good health and freedom from common health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure to his consistent practice of yoga. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health and dedicates at least 45 minutes a day to yoga, highlighting the positive impact it has on overall well-being.

26 Sep 2023
Star Citizens

Wanderlust

Exploring India's Top Travel Hotspots: 2023's Most Sought-After Destinations

As 2023 draws to a close, the Indian travel landscape witnessed a surge in wanderlust, with tourists and explorers eagerly searching for the country's most sought-after destinations. Topping the charts were Goa, Coorg, Kashmir, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, captivating travelers with their unique offerings. Goa, renowned for its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture, remained a perennial favorite. The blend of colonial heritage and lively nightlife continued to enchant visitors. Coorg, often referred to as the "Scotland of India," captivated travelers with its verdant coffee plantations, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city life. Kashmir, with its breathtaking valleys, serene Dal Lake, and snow-capped peaks, remained a paradise for nature lovers despite occasional geopolitical concerns. Andaman & Nicobar Islands emerged as an exotic escape, alluring adventurers with its pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and rich history, making it a must-visit for every avid traveler. The unique charms and captivating scenery of these destinations have undeniably made a lasting impression on the travel plans of 2023, attracting travelers from both within the country and around the world to discover the diverse beauty of India.

29 Dec 2023
Wanderlust

Good News

Farm labourer’s child head to US

Brijpal Singh, a farm laborer struggles to make ends meet, yet his daughter Manvi has bagged a seat in the Wellesley College in the US. Even as a child, Manvi was a sincere and hard working student. Once, she conducted a function in school in English and impressed everyone including the district magistrate of Amroha who showered her with praises. Encouraged by the appreciation, Manvi’s father enrolled her in Vidyagan, an academy that provides free education to meritorious students from rural background. At Vidyagan, Manvi excelled in academics as well as extra curricular activities. Her hard work paid off  when she won the Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Scholarship and left to study in an American school for a year. Her father was a bit apprehensive to send his daughter to such a faraway place, but he was assured that Manvi would live with a foster family. Now, Manvi has managed to get admission to Wellesley College in Massachusetts, where she will pursue a course in international relations. Along with Manvi, six other students from poor backgrounds were selected to study in the US with full scholarships. These children consistently scored high marks while studying at Vidyagan. They were chosen by an educational trust that will fund their education. The students had cleared an entrance exam that qualified them to secure admissions in US colleges. They will travel abroad for their studies in August  and September.

9 Aug 2017
Good News

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