On my gap year, I was searching for a worthy cause to support to make it it memorable.I was introduced to CAREducation by Bharat Solanki, a trustee of the charity and also a close friend of my father.
CAREducation’s aim to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged and naturally challenged children around the world, through education. I was given the opportunity to go to the Himalayan Bhuddist Cultural School in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India. I initially planned to go there for two weeks in last October, but ended up extending my stay to February spending three months there.
I became very attached to the children and could see being that was making such a difference. I started to not only see, but actually live the way people must live in this world. Many children in the school came from single parent families, and few orphans. Yet they were so loving and tough. I truly believe it was my privilege to be able to get to know these children.
They do not have the support of the families which majority of us are fortunate to have, but we have the power to choose which path these children are going to take. They have the same dreams as us. They dream to become doctors, engineers, police officers, surgeons, teachers etc and when asked why they say ‘to help those in their villages’. Without an education they will be trapped in a lifetime of poverty and will not be able to achieve their dreams.
Being there during the winter months, I experienced the struggles the children go through year after year. During heavy snowfall, we did not have light, heat, and electricity for almost a week. Not only was the temperature unbearable but the students were forced to study in their bedrooms wrapped in blankets during exam period. The school dealt with the conditions well, by taking students in groups to natural springs for baths, and using oil lanterns and candles during group study.
In order for them to study more comfortably, I with the help of Jai Memorial hosted a charity golf event at Aldenham Golf & Country Club to raise money for a generator and other facilities. Jai Memorial Invitational Golf is an annual event which started in 2012 in tribute of Late Jai Vaghela (1988-2007). This was their third event, and their purpose is to raise awareness of the various people in need and to raise funds for charities and organisations to help and support them.
We successfully managed to raise money £11,000 on the 8th August at the charity event and online donations (http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/CAREducation). We had a great turnout throughout the day, including the 100 golfers. Both lunch and dinner were catered by Shayona and Venue 5.
The students will very soon have continuous access to hot water and portable heaters allowing them access to 'basic needs'. There is no doubt I will continue to visit and support the school.
