The Society for the Education of the Challenged (SEC) was founded by Fathema Ismail in 1958 after her personal journey with a polio-affected daughter. What began with a personal investment of Rs.40,000 has today evolved into a vital resource for both children and adults with physical challenges across Mumbai.
On March 26, 2025, members of Bombay Cuffe Parade Lions Club, District 3231-A1 visited the Society’s Day School in Agripada, an area in South Mumbai. Among other things, they brought with them the gift of mobility: leg braces and mobility aids for wheelchair-bound children. For many of these children from economically challenged families, this Rs.2.6 lakh project represented newfound independence.
The Lions were warmly welcomed by the children, the school principal and trustees. Grateful for the gifts they had just received, the children treated their visitors to a musical performance. Sporting large smiles and accompanied by their teacher on a harmonium, the children sang with emotion: “Mana apne jeb se fakeer hain, phir bhi yaaro dil ke hum ameer hain.” The Lions could not help but join them in the song that seemed to capture the feelings of the children so beautifully; for they were indeed rich in spirit.
Most moving was watching six children perform a dance to a popular hit song – two boys in wheelchairs participating with beaming smiles that proved contagious to everyone watching.
The club’s support extends beyond prosthetics to ensure these children can access education regularly, by sponsoring their transportation.
District Governor Viraf Keki Mistry, First Vice District Governor Feroze Kali Katrak, Club President John Monterio, Project Leader Arnavaz and other Lion leaders participated in this meaningful service project that embodied the Lions’ mission: “We Serve.”