Fifteen years ago, my family was going through one of the most difficult periods of our lives. My younger brother had contracted HIV during a blood transfusion; from that moment on, we found ourselves facing stigma, isolation and economic hardship. We had lost hope. It was then that we met the Shanti Ashram team through the SUDAR programme.
Uday (not his real name) tells us his story, which took an important turn thanks to the ‘Sudar – Ensuring Integrated Development of Children Living with HIV’ programme. This programme cares for children, young people and families in villages in the Coimbatore area who are living with HIV/AIDS. It is a community impact initiative run by Shanti Ashram, which aims to offer comprehensive and ongoing support. The goal is to strengthen the health, education, food security and psychological well-being of children and young people, while supporting their families economically and socially. Following the global health emergency caused by Covid-19, the project has played a key role in reducing inequalities and promoting community resilience, solidarity, inclusion and new opportunities for growth.
“What was supposed to be just an awareness-raising visit became the beginning of a journey that transformed our lives,” continues Uday. “In 2006, the Ashram staff recognised me as a child in need of help to continue my studies. Thanks to the SUDAR scholarship, I was able to continue school without interruption. For me, that opportunity was like a ray of light.
Every month, I attended SUDAR group meetings, where we received health monitoring, psychological counselling, leadership sessions and recreational activities. We were also given cereals and pulses through the Ashram’s food bank, which ensured my family had healthy and regular meals. During the Diwali celebrations, the Ashram brought us new clothes, sweets and food parcels. These simple but profound gestures gave us back our sense of belonging and confidence in life. Thanks to the support of Shanti Ashram and its educational programme, I completed my 12th year of school, graduated and then went on to obtain a master’s degree in business administration. It was a challenging journey, but the Ashram staff were by my side with encouragement and practical support.
After completing my studies, I started working for a major company, where I gained experience and confidence. Today, I work as a human resources recruiter. My job is to help others build their future, and it’s a way for me to give back what I received.
Every goal I have achieved bears the mark of Shanti Ashram and the SUDAR programme, supported by AFN and the district government. No matter how difficult the road may be, with the right support and confidence, you can start again.
