a grade ten student "touches lives"
The Rotary Club of Dar es Salaam members were enlightened by a presentation from a grade ten IST student, Ankit Bhatt.
Ankit came to the meeting with his partner, Marion Moore (CEO of Fadika – a microfinance company). He started off by showing us a video of a disabled gentleman who tango danced with no leg! Not only did we want to dance with the music, but we were inspired and fascinated.
They called their project “Touching lives” which is focused on changing perception “Living with a disability need not be the end. You can choose whether or not to let it stop you.” We were left captivated with that catchphrase.
Fadika is providing free tricycles to 15 disabled people in Dar es Salaam, whereas Ankit is project managing the project. Their aim is to skill the disabled people with life and business skills to be gainfully employed as opposed to having to beg or depend on others for their livelihood. Doesnt that sound a handful for a 15 year old? Not for Ankit!
Ankit managed to get a few fans from our club not only with his good looks but also through his presentation. Our members were willing to support him by employing the disabled people to their companies at minimum wage!
It is truly enlightening to see how 15 year olds are making a significant difference with their social innovations to the society, and amazing to have the our members (senior and young) for their support in order for differences to take place.
A feather on your cap, Ankit!