A Journey of Empowerment: Meeting the Shalini Fellows in Agra

By Divya Mohan | May 8th, 2025

On a recent visit to Agra, Uttar Pradesh, I had the privilege of meeting 15 extraordinary young women—Shalini Fellows supported by The Kiran Anjali Project. These girls, from marginalized backgrounds, are rewriting their stories through the power of education and mentorship.

United by Purpose

Despite their diverse experiences, the Shalini Fellows share one common trait: an unwavering commitment to their education. In a region where only about 33% of rural girls attend secondary school and dropout rates remain high due to social and economic barriers, their determination is both rare and inspiring.

The Power of Mentorship

At the core of the Shalini Fellowship is mentorship. Each fellow is paired with a mentor who offers guidance through academic and personal challenges. This supportive relationship has helped the girls build confidence, set goals, and cultivate skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Workshops on leadership, communication, and mental health, along with opportunities for community service, are further equipping the fellows with the tools to thrive. Priya shared how a mental health session helped her manage exam stress, while Rita spoke of the discipline she gained by establishing a daily routine.The Power of Mentorship

At the core of the Shalini Fellowship is mentorship. Each fellow is paired with a mentor who offers guidance through academic and personal challenges. This supportive relationship has helped the girls build confidence, set goals, and cultivate skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Workshops on leadership, communication, and mental health, along with opportunities for community service, are further equipping the fellows with the tools to thrive. Priya shared how a mental health session helped her manage exam stress, while Rita spoke of the discipline she gained by establishing a daily routine.

Language as a Gateway

Many of the fellows are making a deliberate effort to communicate in English—a language that opens up access to more educational resources and professional opportunities. Their growing fluency has not only expanded their horizons but also strengthened their self-esteem.

Spotlight on Durgesh: A Story of Resolve

Among the fellows, Durgesh’s story stands out as a testament to grit and ambition. A Class 11 student from a rural village near Agra, she travels 60 kilometers daily to attend school. Despite financial hardships, she scored 80% in her 10th-grade exams and dreams of becoming an IPS officer.

Durgesh’s journey is fueled by the support of her father, a farmer, and by the memory of her two older sisters who were forced to abandon their education. The fellowship has helped ease her family’s financial burden, allowing her to purchase her own textbooks—something she once couldn’t afford.

Today, Durgesh is a role model in her community, proving that with the right support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.

A Ripple of Change

The impact of the Shalini Fellowship goes beyond individual success stories. It fosters a culture of empowerment, encouraging fellows to give back as teachers, doctors, social workers, and more. These young women are not just changing their own lives—they are lighting the way for others.

Durgesh’s journey is just one example of how mentorship, financial support, and opportunity can unlock incredible potential. By investing in girls from marginalized communities, we are not only transforming individual futures but also building stronger, more resilient communities.

Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we can ensure that every girl has the chance to dream, achieve, and lead.