In a world full of challenges, there are individuals whose perseverance and compassion are a beacon of hope for many. Mrs. Lavalina Sogani, Founder-Secretary of Vimukti Sanstha has transformed the lives of numerous underprivileged girls, empowering them with the necessary skills, confidence and education.
Eighteen years ago, Mrs. Sogani embarked on this journey in 2004 with a not-for-profit Education Center for less privileged girls with just twenty students and a team of four teachers.
Vimukti Sanstha today has evolved into a Rajasthan State Board-affiliated school nurturing over 700 girls, providing them with opportunities to realise their true potential. To further support and motivate these girls for higher education and professional career choices, the school established a dedicated Career Development Center in 2018. Vimukti strives to break the cycle of poverty and empower the less privileged girls through quality education and overall development, so they become financially independent and self-reliant.
Mrs. Sogani’s commitment goes beyond the classroom and extends to other aspects of education as well. In addition to free education, Vimukti provides uniforms, books, refreshments, and even transportation support to underprivileged girls, ensuring that these girls can educate themselves without worrying about their financial limitations.
The girls who walk through Vimukti’s doors come from families with monthly incomes of less than Rs. 15,000 and are often the children of labourers, domestic caregivers, painters, and drivers. In many rural societies as well as urban slums, the concept of early marriage remains deeply ingrained, depriving them of the opportunities they could have had. By providing free education, Vimukti takes away the financial burden of educating girls from their parents. Vimukti’s support goes beyond schooling as it focuses on the overall personality and basic skill development of the girls, empowering them to pursue careers of their liking. The girls are hand-held and provided financial support for pursuing higher education until they become capable of earning for themselves.
Empowerment is at the core of Vimukti’s mission. Through the leadership development program in collaboration with Hope Collaborative, USA, Vimukti Sanstha endeavours to inculcate leadership qualities amongst teenage girls, empowering them to assume leadership roles in their families and communities by understanding issues, finding creative solutions and voicing their opinions. They firmly believe that these young girls can become agents of change, not just for themselves but for their entire communities.
Mrs. Sogani’s efforts, determination, and compassion have created a beacon of hope, lighting the way for generations to come. As we commemorate the tremendous journey of Mrs. Lavalina Sogani and the transformative impact of Vimukti Sanstha, let us be inspired by the change that can be brought about by the vision and determination of one individual. Through education, empowerment, and support, Vimukti is not just changing lives but also shaping a future where these young girls emerge as strong, confident, and potential leaders of tomorrow.
