We’re sitting in a small burger restaurant owned by a friend of Tejendra ( who has offered us a discount). He has cobbled together enough tables and chairs for the 23 “higher education” Shanti students that Tejendra and I are meeting with. We’ve basically taken over half this small space and we are crammed in together, talking and laughing..the young men at one table, the young women at another. This is a big treat for them and they are hungry after a long day at college. Snacks are ordered: chicken or veg burgers and fries, all of which vanish in a blink. All the while we are talking together..the noise level high, getting caught up, exchanging jokes and memories; reconnecting.

I’ve known most of these kids since they were very small and I am joyfully awed by the adults they are becoming. Their lives are taking shape! Even over the past two years since I was here last they have matured. And I see new confidence and clarity of purpose.

One by one we go around the table to find out how each is doing at college, what their plans and goals are and if they have any difficulties. First I sit with the girls. Then the young men.

Kanchen is about to graduate her bachelor in business. She is preparing for her board exam and hopes to work in accounting or in banking ( a plum job with excellent upward potential and job security). I’ve watched Kanchen grow up. She came to Shanti as a small girl and now she is a lovely young women about to step out into the world and support herself.

Bishow is a top student from a very poor but extremely hard working, supportive family. He wants to do a BA in Agriculture, a costly program. He is studying for the entrance exam with hopes of earning a 50% scholarship. We make a plan to meet with his Father to discuss what the family may be able to contribute from their side.

Nitisha is in her first year of a three year lab technician program and is finding it more difficult than she anticipated. We strategize what to do. Who are the best students in her program? Can she ask them to help her? Can they study together? She says she thinks so and will ask them.

Lots of selfies are taken. A couple more students arrive, coming from late classes. More greetings, hugs and laughter. Yuna has just come from the hospital where she is doing her nursing practices. She is simply beaming. And hungry! She will finish her studies in 2-3 months and then study for her licensing exam. She loves nursing and is feeling so accomplished. Her future plan is to work for a year and gain experience to qualify for further education towards a BN...more like an RN. This girl has come far. Her Mother is semi disabled and a single Mom, uneducated. She is so proud of her daughter.

These are just a few of the 23 lives that are unfolding in exciting, inspiring ways. These young people who we have been supporting (and whom I adore) are creating self sufficient futures....working hard to improve their lives and those of their families. All will go on to help their parents and siblings, and someday will have the means to educate their own children. I see the confidence and pride this brings.

Saatman is from the Dalit or Untouchable caste. One of our best students, he is determined to rise above his caste and show others that to be Untouchable means nothing. I have no doubt that he will.