Empowering Young Minds: My Journey Teaching Unprivileged Students with Behtar Tomorrow By Sakhi Agarwal
Volunteering is a beautiful way to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of others. In this article, I want to share my incredible experience of teaching underprivileged students at Behtar Tomorrow, an inspiring foundation created by two students from Wynberg Allen School, Mussoorie, in 2022. Behtar Tomorrow aims to provide essential facilities, education, and awareness to children who are less fortunate. This heartwarming initiative is run by 50 members, including 15 volunteers, two teachers, and 33 children. As I reflect on my time spent with Behtar Tomorrow, I've come to realize that the act of giving can truly change the world in unexpected ways.
When I first learned about Behtar Tomorrow, there was a notice on the school's bulletin board inviting interested volunteers to join this noble cause. The idea of contributing to the betterment of these children's lives instantly resonated with me. I was eager to learn more about the initiative and meet the children, as well as offer any help I could.
My role within the foundation was to teach various subjects, including English, Hindi, Maths, Science, and Social Studies, to students ranging from U.K.G to 8th grade. Additionally, I had the opportunity to introduce them to broader topics such as global crises and current affairs. One of my fondest memories was teaching them the basics of the French language and Vedic Math. Witnessing their enthusiasm for learning and their willingness to absorb new knowledge was truly heartwarming.
As I began my journey with Behtar Tomorrow, I was filled with a sense of purpose and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of these children. What I didn't anticipate, however, was how much I would gain from this experience personally. It became evident to me that the act of giving not only benefits those on the receiving end but also brings immeasurable joy and fulfillment to the giver.
One of the most remarkable lessons I learned through this journey is that giving makes us happier. As I imparted knowledge and provided facilities that these children couldn't access otherwise, I found a profound sense of happiness and fulfillment within myself. It was a reminder that giving doesn't deplete us but rather enriches our own lives. The smiles on the faces of these young learners were a testament to the joy that giving can bring.
Moreover, my experience with Behtar Tomorrow taught me that giving can change the world in unexpected ways. The impact of our actions extends far beyond our immediate interactions. When I taught the children, I discovered that they, in turn, shared their newfound knowledge with others who couldn't attend the initiative. This ripple effect reminded me that small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes in the world. It reinforced the idea that even one person can make a substantial difference in the lives of many.
One of the most touching moments during my time with Behtar Tomorrow was when I decided to donate books to the less privileged students within the program. I purchased these books from a book fair at Wynberg Allen School, and the children's faces lit up with excitement when they received these gifts. This simple gesture not only warmed my heart but also earned me a place in the Honours Book – a prestigious recognition given by the principal to individuals who perform exceptional and intimate acts of kindness.
The Honours Book is not something that is handed out lightly; it's a rare acknowledgment. In 2022, I had the privilege of becoming the first recipient of this honor in the entire school. What made it even more special was that the school shared this achievement on social media platforms, making it a cherished memory that I'll forever hold dear. This experience served as a reminder that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact and be recognized and appreciated by the community.
In conclusion, teaching at Behtar Tomorrow has been a profoundly transformative experience for me. It has reinforced the idea that education and kindness have the power to change lives and, ultimately, the world. I am immensely grateful to have been a part of this remarkable initiative and to have had the opportunity to touch the lives of these inspiring children. Behtar Tomorrow reminds us that by giving a little, we can make a big difference and create a brighter future for all. It is a testament to the fact that, through the act of giving, we not only empower others but also find true fulfillment and happiness within ourselves.
