Lotus Valley Private School

A few days, I conducted a workshop at Lotus Valley School, a private school in Gurgaon. There were about 130 girls in the gym. It was remarkable to see the disparity in India. From teaching in a crowded room with no air conditioning and full of sweaty bodies in the village school to a private school with privileged students, wide air conditioned basketball court, skating ring, and more, I couldn't believe how wide the range of schools and students there were. It is unfair to those who are unfortunately born in circumstances of poverty. That's more the reason I believe that the culture of service to the community should be implemented in private schools across India. In my opinion, the wealthy and upper middle class have a sense of entitlement and privilege. . It is important that you appreciate what you are born with and give back as much as you can to those who are less fortunate than you.

National Young Women of Distinction!

Haven't posted in a while, it's been quite an eventful week! First off, wanted to share the good news :) I was selected as a National Young Women of Distinction 2015. This prestigious community service award  is given to 10 girls in high school/college across America who have demonstrated high level of positive both globally and locally. I was incredibly honored to be selected!

Village Gov. School Photos

Tree Plantation Day on July 1st

July 1st was national tree plantation day in India. I was fortunate enough to see and participate in the festivities. I went to the village and planted trees with all of the children. Check out pics below!

A picture of the village

Mental Strength

Strength comes in different forms: mental and physical. To approach physical strength, one needs mental strength. This isn't a new concept and many of us already know this fact. However, through my training both as a student and an instructor, I've seen that having physical strength, better worded, confidence and a lack of fear in your physical ability, actually creates mental confidence and strength.

Something I try to do a few times a week before class is mediation. This increases one's concentration and allows the mind to become strong and calm.

Dr. Kiran Bedi

On July 1st, I had the great honor to meet the fantastic woman, Kiran Bedi. I contacted her last December for a project in India and she connected me to her organization.

Kiran Bedi is the first female woman to join the Indian Police Service.  She founded Navjyoti India Foundation in 1987. NIF has helped over 50,000 people in rural communities ranging from programs such as Drug Dependency Reduction, Women empowerment, Community Development, Rural Growth Sector, and more. This great nonprofit is absolutely amazing. I have the great honor to partner with them and contribute to their vision to challenge the socioeconomic inequalities and enable society towards self reliance.

 Bedi was also the BJP Chief Minister candidate for Delhi elections this year. She was honored by the UN for her outstanding service and Women of the Year (twice!). Her passion and dedication towards helping the poor and maintaining justice in society is exceptional. She is an absolute rockstar and my #1 idol.

She said something very important to me. Something I'll remember for the rest of my life. When I asked how I can take the movement towards safety for women to reach new heights in India. She responded:
"You want to make a change? Start with 6. Then expand it. 60, 600, 6000. Soon you'll have a 6 million girl revolution. You can do this. Just keep going."

Thank you for the encouragement. You will continue inspiring me for the rest of my life.

Pics