Seema: An Illiterate Jharkhand Farmer’s Daughter who Won a Full Scholarship to Harvard

June 16, 20212 Minutes Read
Like Icon
Article Banner

Link Copied!

“I thought I was a burden. Like a bag of stones for my parents” says Radha. A girl from Jharkhand.

Radha's quote is one of the first things that you will get to read when you visit the website of Yuva. It is a nonprofit organization that works with girls in rural Jharkhand to provide them with better education and life.

In Jharkhand, the girls are treated differently when compared to boys.

If you go to this website, you will come to know the kind of challenges that girls in Jharkhand face...

  • Out of 10 girls, only 5 get the benefit of going to the school

  • Even out of these 10 girls, 6 girls are forced to get married. They become child brides.

  • Thousands of little girls are forced to leave Jharkhand -- as sex workers or labourers

    In this kind of depressing background, Seema decided to broaden her horizon. Think differently. And shine. Despite the darkness around her!

Seema applied to Harvard. And is now studying there. On a full scholarship!

Talent does not remain hidden for long. It is like sunshine. A small opening and light will shine through. It does not require large openings, grand doors or huge windows. Even a small opening is enough. Keeping this thought in mind, we have also launched Scholarship Programs, free Career Guidance and free online courses for girls in a variety of subjects.

If you have a dream to build a better tomorrow for yourself, we wish the same for you. And we are willing to do all that it takes to help you achieve your dream. If there is anything that you wish to ask us or share with us, simply contact us here! We will be happy to speak to you!

Seema is famous today. Recently Priyanka Chopra also praised her in one of her posts on Instagram. Amitabh Bachchan's granddaughter also praised Seema's efforts.

However, this fame and praise have not come easily for Seema. There were many challenges that she had to face.....Poverty, the pressure of society, illiterate parents.....and so on.

Seema's father is a poor, illiterate farmer. His farming is just enough to feed his family. There are no additional crops left for him to trade. So, in addition to farming, he also works as a laborer in a local thread factory.

Seema did not let these challenges have a negative impact on herself.

Instead, she decided to study and shine. She joined the Yuwa school. Yuwa has undertaken many initiatives to help girls in Jharkhand. Seema also worked as a football coach in her village.

She was laughed at by a few people for wearing shorts and what the villagers called boy's clothes. However, Seema did not let such criticism and ridicule affect her. She focused on what was important instead.

Along with Harvard, there were other universities, such as Trinity, which were willing to accept Seema as one of their students.

Seema's story is really an inspiration to girls across the world today. Rather than being an illiterate child bride, Seema decided to challenge her boundaries.

She has big dreams even now. After completing her education, Seema wants to help the women in her village become financially independent. Teach them vocational skills and knowledge. Seema wants to see gender equality. In her village as well as the world!

Get Inspired with

Blog and News

blog card
February 19, 20242 Minutes Read

Social Entrepreneurship: Women Driving Impactful Change in India

A powerful force is reshaping communities and driving positive change -- women-led social entrepreneurship . As the narrative of entrepreneurship evolves, so does the role of women who are not just creating businesses but building ventures with a profound impact on society. Let's explore the realm of women's entrepreneurship and the significant strides in social entrepreneurship .

Social entrepreneurship is about harnessing the power of business to address social and environmental challenges. In India, many women embrace this approach, positioning themselves as business leaders and catalysts for positive change. Their ventures aim not just for profit but also for meaningful impact on the communities they serve.

The landscape of women entrepreneurship in India is growing, with female entrepreneurs actively participating in diverse sectors, including social entrepreneurship. This shift is breaking stereotypes and showcasing the multifaceted roles women can play as business leaders with a mission beyond just financial gains.

One compelling aspect of this transformation is the variety of startup ideas for women in social entrepreneurship. From ventures addressing healthcare disparities to those focused on education, women are bringing innovative solutions to the forefront. These ventures are not just about economic empowerment but about creating sustainable change in the fabric of society.

Social entrepreneurship ideas are often born from a deep understanding of local challenges. As the architects of many of these initiatives, women bring a unique perspective to problem-solving. Whether providing access to clean water, improving healthcare facilities, or promoting sustainable agriculture, these entrepreneurs are at the forefront of impactful change.

The intersection of entrepreneur ideas for women and social entrepreneurship creates a space where purpose-driven businesses thrive. Women are not just looking for financial success; they seek ways to contribute meaningfully to society. The spirit of collaboration and community building is embedded in their ventures, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective well-being.

One notable example is Preeti Singh, a social entrepreneur who founded a venture focused on menstrual hygiene in rural India. Her initiative addresses a critical health issue and empowers women by providing them with sustainable and affordable solutions. Preeti's story represents the transformative potential of women's entrepreneurship in tackling societal challenges.

The emphasis on social entrepreneurship among women is also generating a ripple effect regarding mentorship and support networks. Established female entrepreneurs are actively encouraging and guiding the next generation. This mentorship is crucial in nurturing a culture of innovation and resilience among women venturing into social entrepreneurship.

The momentum of women entrepreneurship in social impact ventures is not just a trend; it signifies a paradigm shift in how businesses operate in India. Organisations and institutions recognise women's value in terms of empathy, collaboration, and a deep understanding of community needs.

The rise of social entrepreneurship driven by women in India is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven businesses. As more women explore and invest in entrepreneurial ideas for women that focus on social impact, the future promises a more equitable and sustainable society. These women entrepreneurs are not just building businesses but driving impactful change and leaving an indelible mark on the nation's socio-economic fabric.

At Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly known as Fair & Lovely Career Foundation), we believe in empowering women to be independent. We provide online career guidance, existing jobs and other online courses to help them nurture their dream of driving social entrepreneurship in India.