PUNE: “The rising population is bringing with it a lot of associated challenges, especially the ones relating to women’s safety and security. Parents today face an overwhelming sense of fear as they read daily reports of women’s exploitation, assault, and other injustices. In this context, the ‘Asmita’ initiative aimed at empowering girls is truly reassuring and comforting”, said renowned actress Sonali Kulkarni during the inauguration of ‘Asmita’, a program designed towards Girl Empowerment. She also emphasized that this program assures women that they are not alone, that there are numerous resources available to support them, and many people whom they can trust.
The fourth phase of the ‘Asmita’ program, focusing on girl empowerment, was inaugurated on International Girl Child Day by the Rotary Club of Bibwewadi. The event took place at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Kharadi. Since its inception in 2019, supported by the CSR department of GTPL, the program has helped over one lakh girls across five states.
During the event, B.P.K (Bob) Shah, a senior entrepreneur, and philanthropist, was honored with the ‘Vocational Service Award’ from the Rotary Club of Bibwewadi in the august presence of Sonali Kulkarni, Divya Momaya- Director of CSR GTPL, Saurabh Banerjee – CFO, GTPL, Sheetal Shah – District Governor 3131, Nitin Dhamale – Governor Elect, Mohan Palesha & Pankaj Shah – former District Governors, Manasi Shah – President, Bibwewadi Club, and project coordinators Dr. Jignesh Pandya and Dr. Prachi Pandya along with Bhavin Desai & Nikhil Bhalerao.
In her speech, Kulkarni reflected, “My generation was not even aware of the term mental health, let alone the concept. Today’s generation is lucky to be informed about these issues, and they have the knowledge and resources to address them. The presence of councilors in their schools is a significant change.”
Kulkarni expressed her gratitude for the solid support system she received from her parents, brothers, and a supportive husband throughout her career. She feels fortunate to have had great friends and colleagues in the film industry. Her mentors taught her to remain sensitive and act with integrity, allowing her to work honestly without comparing herself to male cofactors, which has made a significant difference in her journey.
Manasi Shah, while providing details about the initiative, stated, “For the past five years, our club has been working to raise awareness among girl students about menstruation, sexual violence, self-defence, cyberbullying, and financial literacy. We have successfully reached out to about one lakh girls across 200 locations and aim to reach an additional fifty thousand in the coming year. Considering the importance of mental health, the fourth phase will focus on the mental well-being of college girls and provide both theoretical and practical knowledge to them.”
Divya Momaya emphasized the need for women to become financially independent and highlighted the challenges women face in corporate settings. She noted, “When a woman in the household is educated, the entire family benefits, but when she ventures into business and becomes financially independent, she shapes the next generation.”
B.P.K (Bob) Shah shared insights about his journey and the global work done with Rotary. The event began with a prayer by Ahana Bhalerao, followed by the opening remarks from Manasi Shah. Dr. Jignesh Pandya hosted the proceedings, and Bhavin Desai presented the vote of thanks.
