For twelve years, Rohit has been a proud beneficiary of the New Market Community Development project. He lives with his parents and siblings, in a slum colony under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. His family belongs to the community of sweepers and scavengers, commonly known as Harijans and often marginalized as Dalits (historically regarded as “untouchable” under India’s caste system, a traditional social hierarchy that divides people by birth).His parents work as sweepers, collecting garbage from assigned areas, and their small home stands beside a garbage dump, surrounded by the constant stench of waste.

Growing up, life in the community was difficult. Frequent clashes broke out between the Harijans and the Sonkars (another caste group claiming higher status than the Harijans), over usage of basic necessities like water and toilets. Deep-rooted superstitions, child marriages, gender discrimination, and witchcraft were still rampant, fuelled by a lack of education and awareness.

Amid this environment, Rohit’s early childhood offered little hope. At just six years old, he spent his days wandering around Kyd Street and Sudder Street, areas frequented by foreign tourists. With only a few English words such as “Hello, Papa” and “I am hungry”, he would approach tourists for food. Sometimes he sold the food they gave him just to earn a few rupees. The project teachers noticed him loitering and, concerned for his wellbeing, made repeated efforts to bring him into the program. Though Rohit often slipped away, their persistence eventually paid off. Gradually, Rohit began to trust them and attended the program regularly, responding to his teachers’ guidance.

That decision marked the turning point of his life. Once motivated, he showed remarkable dedication to learning. After mastering basic reading and writing, he was enrolled in a regular school. Through determination and continued project support, he completed Class 10 and Class 12 through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).

During his time in school, Rohit discovered a deep love for classical dance. He pursued a formal dance training, later becoming a dance instructor at one of Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta’s projects. Having completed a beautician course, he also conducted short-term beautician trainings for the youth in the community, helping them build confidence and livelihood skills.

Rohit’s accomplishments continued to grow. He actively participated in the International Award for Young People (IAYP), successfully earning Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards; the prestigious Gold Award being presented to him in 2011 by Mr Vikram Chandra, CEO, NDTV Networks. 

While engaged in community service, Rohit felt a new calling, to serve as a nurse. Though he lacked a qualification in science, he began volunteering at a local health centre, where his dedication and compassion stood out.  On a doctor’s recommendation, he was granted admission to a three-year Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) at a reputed academy in Bangalore. He completed his diploma successfully and earned his nursing license to practice.

Today, Rohit leads the operations at a Kolkata Municipal Corporation Health Centre, serving the community with dedication, while actively seeking opportunities to advance his career in a major hospital. He continues to inspire young people to dream big and recognise education as a path to meaningful opportunities.

From a child surviving on the streets, to a skilled healthcare professional, Rohit’s journey embodies the power of hope, faith, and opportunity.

Rohit’s story reminds us that every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and dream beyond their circumstances. You can help transform more lives like his by supporting our education and community projects.