As I stepped inside the gates of Disha, the Mission Education centre run by Smile Foundation in Noida, I got enveloped by an atmosphere filled with boundless enthusiasm and heartwarming warmth. It felt like a home away from home. As a volunteer and a photographer, I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in the heartwarming experiences that awaited me. Despite not knowing what to expect, I felt driven by a desire to make a positive impact and extend a helping hand in any way I could.
One of the first things that caught my attention was the vibrant classroom setting, buzzing with interactive learning. The teachers were incredibly passionate and dedicated, engaging the students in lively discussions and hands-on activities. Children’s curiosity and eagerness to learn the lesson amazed me.
In the computer lab, I saw the power of education in action. As a volunteer, I guided some of them through the MS Word application. Being in the computer lab with these children reminded me of the transformative power of technology in education.
Equal access to resources can break the cycle of poverty, providing a brighter future for these young minds. The students were not just learning to use computers; they were gaining confidence and developing valuable skills that would benefit them in the future. The computer lab was a space where they could explore their potential and opportunities for personal growth.
During the visit, I came across a display board for students’ artwork and was awestruck! The creativity of students knew no bounds. Their artistic expressions were filled with genuine emotions and imagination. In their artwork, I saw the potential and the promise of a brighter future.
During the lunch break, I had the delightful opportunity to interact with the children. As I mingled with them, each shared big dreams and aspirations. Their determination to make those dreams inspired me to be a better person, cherish life’s blessings, and contribute to making their world a better place. Despite their challenging circumstances, they found joy in the simplest things. Their radiant smiles possessed an incredible power to brighten anyone’s day.
As a photographer, my primary responsibility was to capture the essence of the day. I focused on preserving candid moments of the children fully immersed in their studies and play. Each snapshot depicted the pure happiness and innocence that shone through their eyes. Their innocence filled my heart and reminded me of the beauty and purity of childhood.
My experience at the Smile Foundation’s Education Centre is deeply ingrained in my heart. Witnessing the dedication of the staff and the curiosity of the children to learn reaffirmed my belief in the importance of education as a tool for empowerment.
At that moment, I realized that the work Smile Foundation was doing at its centers across India was more than just education and skill-building. It was about bringing smiles to the faces of these young souls, empowering them to dream big, and providing them with the tools to turn those dreams into reality.
As a volunteer and intern in the documentation of this beautiful journey, I walked away with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that these children’s smiles would forever be a part of my special memories.
*Anwesha Kapoor is a volunteer and intern with the Communications Department of Smile Foundation who thoroughly enjoys taking photographs and is one of the most eager and curious persons to be a part of the Smile world.
One reply on “Volunteer Speaks: Anwesha Kapoor”
Anwesha, It’s really a great experience for you. Best of luck, do your best for this holly purpose.