Behind every number is a name, a family, a fight.
These are the stories of people who refused to give up—and of a community that rose with them.
A Healthier Pregnancy, A Stronger Future
One conversation changed how I saw my pregnancy.
Low hemoglobin and confusion made Urmila’s pregnancy risky—until a health worker explained every medicine and meal.
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Urmila lives in Ashok Nagar with her husband and daughter. Her second pregnancy began with uncertainty. She met Seema Tai from Apnalaya during a community survey. When her hemoglobin was found to be dangerously low, Seema explained the importance of supplements, accompanied her to the health post, and encouraged her to attend health sessions. As her health improved, Urmila gained confidence and delivered a healthy 3-kg baby girl. Today, she is informed, empowered, and thriving—thanks to early identification, consistent follow-up, and care.
From Silent Struggles to Standing Tall
never thought anything could be done. Now I help others do it.
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Afsana struggled silently with her son’s complete hearing loss and an immobile father-in-law. Through Apnalaya’s disability inclusion programme, she accessed therapy, disability certification, and assistive devices. Motivated by her journey, Afsana became a community volunteer and then a leader—helping others access rights, entitlements, and dignity. Her story shows how inclusion and empowerment go hand in hand.
Breaking Barriers to Chase a Dream
I want to wear the IPS uniform—and make my parents proud.
When Preeti insisted on continuing school, she faced resistance from family and society. But her dream of becoming an IPS officer refused to dim.
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At just 16, Preeti fought against generational norms that said girls should stay home. Her father sold pani puri, her grandmother disapproved, and her family struggled with six younger sisters. Apnalaya’s education team visited her home multiple times, counselled her parents, and guided her through the admission process. Today, she is in 11th grade Commerce, working toward her goal of joining the IPS. Her story reflects what happens when belief and opportunity come together.
From Isolation to Strength
I didn’t open the door. Now I open up to help others like me.
Pregnant and overwhelmed, Femhida had shut out the world—until a group of women refused to give up on her.
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Femhida lived alone with her two daughters, managing her third pregnancy in silence and fear. Her husband, who had two families, was mostly absent. Isolated and anxious, she avoided hospitals and feared male doctors—convinced home birth was her only option.When Apnalaya’s health worker and the Mother Support Group began visiting her, she resisted. But their gentle persistence helped her open up. They registered her pregnancy, guided her to antenatal care, and reassured her through every step—even during a risky hypertensive episodeWhen she went into labor at 2 a.m., the group sprang into action—calling her husband, convincing the hospital to admit her, and caring for her children. That night, Femhida delivered a healthy 2.8 kg baby girl at Rajawadi Hospital.Today, she looks back not with fear, but gratitude. Her story shows what patient, women-led community support can do—turn fear into trust, and silence into strength.
From Forgotten to Fearless
We were invisible. Now we make ourselves heard.
Denied services for over a decade, residents of Patra Chawl organized and fought for their rights—with lasting impact.
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Patra Chawl’s 240 families lived without drainage, water, or power. Deemed ‘unauthorized,’ they were ignored by systems. Apnalaya field staff began door-to-door trust-building. Residents formed a Community Action Group (CAG), identified problems, and escalated complaints. After threats of social media exposure, the local MLA’s wife intervened and repairs began.Today, the community demands services boldly—and receives them. This is citizen leadership in action.
From Anger to Advocacy
I was angry at the world. Now I’m changing it.
Sanjay’s anger at injustice led him from a life of crime to a life of service—transforming his community along the way.
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Sanjay grew up in a broken home, surrounded by violence and crime. He joined a gang, but after a near-fatal incident, he realized he wanted more. With Apnalaya’s support, he completed his education and became a community volunteer. Today, he leads youth groups, advocates for rights, and inspires others to choose peace over violence. His journey shows how one person’s transformation can uplift an entire community.