Hello, my name is Aarthi.

I want to tell you the story of how my dream came true.

I was born in a small village of Tamil Nadu (South India) called Thandaraipettai. I come from a family of farmers. I live with my dad, Asirvatham, my mum, Jaya, and my older sister.

My dream was to study Nursing and one day become a nurse, but there was not enough money in my family to afford my studies.

In India, there isn't much of a chance for girls to go to university and access higher education. If there is more than one girl in a family, it means they cannot pursue their studies as the family has to save money for their dowries. Parents prioritise their sons' education over their daughters'.

I'd already given up on the idea of studying when I heard about Indian Futures' Sponsorship Programme. Indian Futures has given me the opportunity to complete my Nursing studies.

However, finishing my course wasn't an easy journey. When the pandemic hit, I didn't think I would be able to continue due to the harsh Indian lockdown rules and how uncertain the situation was all over the country. Despite the difficulties, Indian Futures continued to sponsor me and encouraged me to follow my dream. In May 2021, I finally qualified as a nurse, and am now working in Maduranthakam's General Hospital. I really enjoy my job!

So far, Indian Futures has helped 16 girls achieve their goals. But they want to continue to increase their impact, so more girls like me can make their dreams come true. -Aarthi A.

All the funds we raise through this campaign will go towards the university fees of other girls like Aarthi.

Thank you for giving the gift of education this Christmas.

Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2022.