26-May-25

From Isolation to Inspiration

For a young person facing the loss of family, the world can feel isolated. Meena experienced this firsthand, spending her early teens in government hostels where loneliness and stress were constant companions. At 13, her path shifted when she found SOFKIN. Asked why she came; her answer was direct: to escape feeling alone. SOFKIN offered her a family environment, the love of Chaya Amma, and real connections with other children.  

26-May-25

26-May-25

Upon arriving at SOFKIN, Meena felt immediate relief at no longer being isolated and the joy of being reunited with her brothers and sisters. At the same time, she realized her family expanded to include all of the children and caregivers at SOFKIN 

Study Struggles

Her favorite SOFKIN memories center on the lively birthday parties and the vibrant atmosphere of the many festivals celebrated there.

When asked about favorite stories involving Amma, Meena recalls the challenges she faced with her studies, particularly the shift from Telugu to English. Passing exams required multiple attempts. Despite Meena’s struggles and a moment when she considered changing her academic path to avoid studying, Amma remained a constant source of patience, support, and motivation.

Ultimately, with Amma’s guidance and the help of other SOFKIN students, Meena cleared all her subjects. Amma also played a crucial role in helping Meena identify her passion for social work.

Beyond academics, Meena also enjoyed the creative outlet of making bangles and jewelry at SOFKIN. 

Finding Her Path

Being part of SOFKIN fundamentally changed Meena’s life. The loss of her mother became a driving force, inspiring her to pursue social work to help others facing hardship. SOFKIN provided the stability and encouragement she needed to pursue this goal.

Now, at 27, Meena is a social worker. She started her career at SOFKIN as a social worker coordinator. During her master’s studies, field visits within different social care departments led her to identify two children she referred to SOFKIN. She credits Amma’s constant support and guidance in developing her analytical skills and the ability to find solutions. Her current work involves engaging with children, connecting them with awareness programs and the positive influence of pets..   

Looking to the Future

Looking ahead, her goals for the next five to ten years include continued learning, building an NGO network, and maintaining her connection with SOFKIN. Currently, Meena continues her connection to SOFKIN by counselling children and teaching them to make bangles and jewelry.

She is also focused on personal milestones, aiming to have her own house by the end of the year and plans to get married in the near future.  

Meena emphasizes that the impact of SOFKIN is profound and deeply personal.

It transforms lives in ways that are difficult to articulate. “It cannot be described in words; it can only be felt. When you are there, you can feel the love and support and warmth. It’s in the very air”, she says. 

Meena highlights the meaningful role of donors, stating that their contributions directly and transparently improve the children’s quality of life, a fact she has witnessed firsthand as a social worker. Her story is a clear example of how dedicated support can empower young people to overcome adversity and build a brighter future. 

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