1. Sunita’s Journey: From Pain to Hope
Sunita Dutta’s life changed forever the day she became a victim of an acid attack. The trauma of that moment was more than just physical—it shattered her confidence, leaving her battling immense pain, uncertainty, and fear for the future. Each day was a struggle, not only due to the excruciating physical wounds but also the emotional scars that came with them. The financial burden of treatment only added to her worries, making the road to recovery seem distant and overwhelming. Amidst this darkness, Meer Foundation stepped in as a beacon of hope. The foundation provided Sunita with crucial medical support, ensuring she had access to the necessary surgeries, treatments, and medicines. Beyond medical aid, the foundation extended its care during one of the most significant phases of her life—her pregnancy. Understanding the additional challenges she faced as an expectant mother, Meer Foundation supported her through prenatal care and made sure she had everything needed for a safe delivery.
But the support didn’t end there. Sunita found herself surrounded by kindness from people who stood by her through every step of her recovery. Their encouragement, along with Meer Foundation’s unwavering support, helped her regain not just her physical health but also her sense of self-worth. Today, she feels a newfound strength and optimism—one she never thought she could experience again.
With deep gratitude, Sunita expresses her heartfelt thanks to Meer Foundation and everyone who played a role in her journey. Their compassion and assistance have transformed her life, giving her the courage to move forward with hope and dignity.
2. A Second Chance at Life: Khairul Sekh’s Journey of Resilience
Khairul Sekh’s life changed in an instant when he became the victim of a brutal acid attack. The physical pain was unbearable, but the emotional and psychological trauma ran even deeper.
Trapped in a body that no longer felt like his own, Khairul struggled with the fear of never being able to lead a normal life again. The disfigurement, the stares, and the isolation weighed heavily on him, making hope feel like a distant dream.
Without immediate medical intervention, his condition could have been fatal. But just when all seemed lost, Meer Foundation stepped in. With their support, Khairul underwent multiple life-saving surgeries, each one bringing him closer to healing—not just physically, but emotionally too. The journey has not been easy, and his treatment is still ongoing, but today, he stands stronger than ever, with renewed hope and purpose.
Beyond medical aid, the Meer Foundation’s support has given Khairul something even more valuable—dignity and the confidence to reclaim his life. The ability to return to his family, to feel accepted, and to dream again is a gift he never imagined he would receive. Recalling the timely and unconditional help he received, Khairul expressed his heartfelt gratitude:
"With the help of Meer Foundation, I got a new life. I was able to return to my family. I am thankful for the Meer Foundation, and I hope they continue to help many victims like me in the future." His story is a testament to the power of compassion and timely intervention. While his journey to recovery continues, Khairul’s resilience shines as an inspiration to many others who are still waiting for their second chance at life.
3. Restoring Hope: Tanuja Khatun’s Journey from Despair to Strength
Tanuja Khatun’s life changed in an instant when she became a victim of an acid attack. The physical and emotional scars left her feeling helpless, with limited access to the treatment she desperately needed. Despite her determination to undergo surgery, the overwhelming financial burden made it impossible for her to proceed. Each passing day, she longed for the chance to look in the mirror without pain and reclaim the confidence that had been stolen from her.
Everything changed when she came in contact with Meer Foundation. With their unwavering support, Tanuja was able to undergo multiple critical surgeries—without the stress of financial constraints. The foundation not only covered the costs but also ensured that she received the best possible medical care. For Tanuja, this was more than just medical assistance; it was the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
Today, she expresses her deep gratitude to Meer Foundation for giving her a new lease on life. The transformation is not just physical—her self-confidence has been restored, and she now looks forward to a future filled with possibilities. While she continues her journey of healing, she is hopeful about undergoing further treatments and fully reclaiming the beautiful life she once envisioned. Through its support, Meer Foundation has not only changed Tanuja’s life but has also reaffirmed the power of compassion, resilience, and the right to dignity for every survivor.
4. Gulista’s Journey: From Despair to Empowerment
Gulista was a bright and bold woman with dreams and aspirations, eager to carve out a meaningful life for herself. However, a horrific attack turned her world upside down. She and her entire family were assaulted by the perpetrator and his two brothers, leaving her with severe burns on both hands, the right side of her face, and her back. The physical pain was immense, but the emotional scars ran even deeper. Once full of life and ambition, Gulista found herself battling despair, struggling with her altered appearance and the limitations imposed by her injuries. The road to recovery was long and daunting. She required multiple surgeries, each crucial in helping her regain not just her physical form but also her confidence. In this journey, Meer Foundation played a pivotal role, stepping in at a time when support was most needed. Through their assistance, Gulista was finally able to undergo a long-awaited face fat grafting surgery, a critical step toward her healing and rehabilitation.
But the support didn’t stop at medical aid. The Meer Foundation ensured that Gulista received emotional and psychological support, helping her regain a sense of self-worth and dignity. They provided resources that empowered her, enabling her to take charge of her life once again. Though the pain of that tragic day will always remain with her, the timely intervention and care she received have given her strength, resilience, and a renewed sense of hope.
Life after the attack has been a constant struggle, but the support from the Meer Foundation made me feel seen, heard, and empowered. I will always be grateful for the difference they made in my life," says Gulista.
Her journey is a testament to the power of timely intervention and compassion. With the right support, survivors like Gulista can rise above their tragedies and reclaim their lives, proving that they are far more than their scars.
5. Hope Kolkata Foundation Stories
Mandevi Paswan, a resident of Panditiya, Kolkata, is a dedicated mother and homemaker living with her family of four. Her husband, an auto driver, earns Rs. 12,000 per month, serving as the sole breadwinner. Despite her basic education, Mandevi faced financial challenges that prevented her from pursuing higher education. However, she remained determined to improve her family's financial situation and provide quality education for her two sons.
A life-changing opportunity presented itself when a friend, a former student of the tailoring unit, introduced Mandevi to the tailoring course offered by the Vocational Skill Centre at Panditiya Road. With aspirations of achieving financial independence and creating a better future for her family, she eagerly enrolled in the program. The training proved transformative for Mandevi. She learned to craft various garments, including kurtis, blouses, petticoats, palazzos, gowns, and even intricate embroidery techniques, mastering 22 different styles. The program not only enhanced her tailoring skills but also instilled confidence and entrepreneurial knowledge, enabling her to work from home as a tailor.
Mandevi’s journey to financial independence began with small orders that brought in Rs. 1,000–2,000 per month. However, her skills soon earned her a large order, boosting her monthly income to Rs. 8,000. This remarkable achievement significantly improved her household income, allowing her to contribute to her family’s finances and ensure a better quality of life for her children. After completion of her course from Hope Kolkata Foundation she received one sewing machine supported by Meer Foundation, which help her a lot.
Today, Mandevi is a shining example of resilience and determination. Her tailoring business has given her the means to support her family and achieve the stability she once aspired to.
She expresses deep gratitude for the training and support provided by the tailoring team, which empowered her to transform her life.
Mandevi looks forward to a bright future, full of possibilities, and remains an inspiration to others in her community who dream of overcoming financial hardships through skill development and hard work.
6. Sumi Pathak
Sumi Pathak, a young woman from Kolkata, has faced significant challenges in life. Coming from a low-income family of three, she lost her father at an early age, leaving her mother as the sole provider, earning just Rs. 8,000 per month. Despite these hardships, Sumi managed to complete her higher secondary education. However, as financial pressures mounted, she took on the responsibility of becoming the primary earner for her family. In her quest for financial independence, Sumi enrolled in the Hair Styling Beautician course offered at the Vocational Skill Centre on Panditiya Road. Motivated by a desire to support her family and improve their living conditions, she embraced the training with dedication and hard work.
Throughout the course, Sumi not only acquired technical skills in hair styling and beautician services but also developed her confidence, communication, and customer service abilities.
These skills became instrumental in helping her secure a position at a local beauty parlour, where she now earns Rs. 5,000–6,000 per month.
This income has brought significant improvements to her family's financial situation. Sumi is now able to contribute to household expenses, easing the burden on her mother.
Moreover, her personal growth and achievements have inspired others in the community, particularly her fellow trainees at the vocational centre. Sumi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and skill development. By leveraging the opportunities provided through the beautician course, she has not only improved her own life but also brought hope and stability to her family. Grateful for the support she received during her training, Sumi looks forward to continuing her career in the beauty industry. Her determination and success serve as a beacon of inspiration for others who aspire to overcome adversity and achieve financial independence through hard work and perseverance.
7. Tuktuki Sarkar
Tuktuki Sarkar, a resident of Kolkata, lives with her husband and two daughters. Belonging to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family, Tuktuki’s household relied solely on her husband, a driver earning Rs. 10,000 per month. Despite financial challenges and limited educational opportunities—having studied only up to class 6—Tuktuki was determined to contribute to her family’s income and create a better future for her daughters. Recognizing the potential of vocational training, Tuktuki enrolled in the Hair Styling & Beautician course at the Life Skill Vocational Centre on Panditiya Road. Although she initially lacked confidence and was shy, the program provided her with not just technical skills, but also essential life skills.
Under the guidance of the trainers, Tuktuki gradually overcame her shyness and developed strong social and professional communication skills. She learned how to interact effectively with clients, enhancing her confidence and even improving her basic English pronunciation. Alongside these soft skills, Tuktuki mastered a variety of beautician techniques, which equipped her to start offering beauty services in her local community.
Tuktuki’s efforts have paid off as she now earns Rs. 5,000–6,000 per month by providing beauty services. Her income has become a crucial support for her family, helping to meet household expenses and plan for her daughters' future. The transformation in Tuktuki's life is remarkable. From a shy homemaker to a confident beautician running her own small-scale business, her journey highlights the power of skill development in empowering women.
Tuktuki credits the beautician course for giving her the tools and encouragement to change her life. She is now a role model for other women in her community, inspiring them to take charge of their futures and achieve financial independence. With a bright outlook ahead, Tuktuki is determined to continue growing her business and ensuring a better life for her family.
8. Nivedita Kushwaha
Nivedita Kushwaha, a 21-year-old resident of Garcha, Kolkata, grew up in a modest household of four. Her father, the sole breadwinner, runs a small grocery shop, earning Rs. 8,000 per month. Despite completing her higher secondary education financial instability posed a significant challenge for the family. Determined to contribute and improve their living conditions, Nivedita began seeking opportunities to build her skills and achieve financial independence.
A turning point came when a close friend recommended the Tailoring and Garment construction course offered by the Vocational Skill Centre of Hope Kokata Foundation at Panditiya Road. Encouraged by her friend's support and motivated to make a difference, Nivedita enrolled in the program. With the unwavering guidance of the tailoring team, she quickly adapted to the training, learning to create various garments, including dresses, and mastering the basics of running a small business.
Throughout the course, Nivedita demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience. She not only honed her technical skills but also learned essential financial management principles, which proved instrumental in her journey. After completion of the course she received a Sewing machine from Meer Foundation. Equipped with this knowledge and her tailoring expertise, Nivedita established a home-based stitching business. Today, she earns Rs. 1,000–1,500 per month, a significant contribution to her family's income.
The impact of this transformation goes beyond finances. Nivedita's journey has instilled in her a deep sense of confidence and independence. She has become a source of inspiration for others in her community, showcasing how determination and access to the right opportunities can bring about meaningful change.
Nivedita attributes her success to the tailoring program and the unwavering support of the team that empowered her with the skills and confidence to transform her life. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to Meer Foundation for the newfound stability and the ability to care for her family.
