Creating lasting change often begins with a small step—and in 2015, a humble initiative took root that would go on to impact countless lives. What started as a simple effort has now grown into Rajani Foundation India (RFI), a non-profit organization devoted to uplifting individuals and families through meaningful support. One of its most impactful programs, Each One Teach One, aims to empower underprivileged students by providing financial assistance for their education. RFI firmly believes that supporting the growth of young minds helps foster stronger communities.
Education is the mirror of the society and is a seed as well as flower of the socioeconomic development. Through this program they help students pursue their formal education and become 1st gen learners in their family. They extend their help not only in educational support but also in mentoring, helping in career choices and many more.
One such story is of Nikita Vilas Jadhav, an 11th std student studying Arts in Sharada Vidyalaya, Padagha. She lives with her family – Mom, Dad, Nikita and her 2 younger brothers. They live in Phulorepada a village in Thane district.
During my conversation with Nikita she radiated cheerful energy through her voice. Despite having studying range of subjects like Hindi, English, Marathi, History, Economics, Political science her favorite subject still remains Marathi. She also expressed her liking for reading. When inquired about her favorite hobby she stated that drawing is her preferred pastime.
Rajani Foundation started helping Nikita since she was in grade 1. She expressed that the financial assistance for her education has been crucial in allowing her to reach 11th grade and to continue her studies further. She also believes that without the foundations help she would not have been able to attain her current level of education. RFI has also extended their help not only to Nikita but also to her 2 younger brothers in 8th and 4th grade, which has paved a way for them to shine brighter in future.
She remembered help from Aniket sir, her mentor. He not only took classes, but also helped her select course in college and gave guidance in her studies. She expressed her fond to study Arts as a subject as her school teaches them very well.
Help is providing something necessary to someone or facilitating their journey towards their goal. Nikita expresses her wish to help someone in the same way RFI is helping her. If Nikita gets a chance to help someone in need she will definitely seize the opportunity to make an impact in someone’s life.
Nikita mentioned that she believes in – ‘अभ्यास केला तर सगळं होत’ i.e., studying makes everything possible or paves way for better opportunities, this is her belief to keep going if time gets tough and to not give up in any situation.
This unwavering support from RFI has helped many kids not only Nikita to keep the hope of studying alive. Getting this support has proved to be very beneficial in lives of these kids who are able to study, dream big for their future and in reality walk on the path towards their goal. It provides them with resources and opportunities that can impact their development and future.
A message from Nikita to RFI – ‘This support from RFI of funding her education from 1st to 11th grade and beyond means a lot for her and she expects nothing more.’
-Shriya S. Patil
