I grew up with a strong desire to lend my voice for vulnerable children in all ways I could, and over the years have volunteered with various NGOs for the same. Following my national win, I knew I had to make use of the opportunity to instigate ripples of change in the society.

Soon after, I got a chance to visit the SOS Children’s Village in Hyderabad (my hometown), in association with my Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) ‘Project 10-9-8’, and my gut still leaps with joy on recollecting the warm welcome I received by the children and SOS Mothers.

Established in 2003, SOS Children’s Village is one of the top NGOs in Hyderabad. The organisation aims at helping children neglected or abandoned by their families due to their inability to meet the needs of their children, including those who have lost their parents at a very young age. Currently, the total number of children under their care is 138. Children here are nurtured by loving mothers and now have a family to call their own.

Connecting with those children made me appreciate the fact that behind every smile, behind every action, lies a story, and these stories — sometimes happy but often sad — mould us into who we are today. It is easy to pay attention to the way people look and act, but our fears and traumas are very personal experiences. So, I really want to reach out and make as many children feel safe.

Through my BWAP ‘Project 10-9-8’, I aim to promote the safety and security of children and have also associated with the Hyderabad police with their campaign ‘We Can’ that tends towards preventing and stopping child sexual abuse in the state.

During my visit, I also hosted a session with the young girls and mothers, where we discussed child rights in brief and at the end. One more thing that touched my soul was this beautiful portrait of me I was presented with by them. I was deeply touched by the gesture. Thank you, for welcoming me into your home and hearts!