Compassion Amid Calamity
“Before today, I thought banking was complicated and scholarships were for others,” shares Imrana, a senior secondary student from Ghaziabad. “Now I understand these tools are meant for me too.” Her eyes sparkle with newfound confidence as she describesProject Vitt Vichaar – the financial literacy workshop she attended on September 29, 2024.
Organized by the Leos of District 321A2 in collaboration with Connecting Dreams Foundation, Gargi Chapter and Lakshay Foundation, this initiative aims to bring essential financial knowledge to women and young girls from underserved communities. The workshop attracted 30 participants, all part of a vocational sewing program, eager to complement their technical skills with financial understanding.
“We designed our modules around real-life situations these women encounter daily,” explains Leo Aashlok, who along with fellow Leos Rupayan, Gautam, and Jhanvi, crafted the interactive sessions. Rather than lectures about abstract concepts, they walked participants through practical scenarios: opening bank accounts, creating household budgets, identifying common financial scams, and navigating government support systems.
For Tarannum, another participant, the workshop opened doors she didn’t know existed. “These aren’t just financial tips – they’re tools for independence,” she reflects.
The workshop’s interactive approach enabled participants to share experiences and openly discuss challenges, creating a community of mutual support and learning.
“Financial literacy transforms lives,” notes a Leo organizer. “When women understand money management, they gain control over their futures.” The impact is already visible: both Imrana and Tarannum are exploring scholarship opportunities and sharing their banking knowledge within their community. Their journey from workshop participants to community resources exemplifies the program’s ripple effect in Ghaziabad.