Rekha’s journey to empowerment began over a decade ago at Asha Niwas, a safe haven for young girls who were children of sex workers in Delhi, India. The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth of Asha Niwas, Agnes Tudu, Beronika Bilung, Premila Parackatt, and Rita Barla, took Rekha under their wing and provided her with the tools and resources to succeed.

Rekha Lakra recently returned to Asha Niwas for a visit and had the opportunity to catch up with Sister Rena Fernandes. The two sat down for a conversation, and Rekha reminisced about her time at Asha Niwas and the impact it had on her life.

Rekha arrived at Asha Niwas in 2011 for a job, eager to learn and help care for the children. Rekha quickly adapted to her new role at Asha Nivas and threw herself into her duties with both mind and heart. She learned to take care of the children and even taught the younger ones. Additionally, she went to the outreach center in a nearby slum to teach non-school-going children. The Sisters at Asha Nivas took a keen interest in her development and taught her English and other skills, helping her grow physically and intellectually. Her exposure to the city broadened her horizons and expanded her ideas and knowledge. Despite the challenges, Rekha remained focused on her goal to do something meaningful with her life. With their guidance and support, Rekha saved enough money to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse.

After three years at Asha Niwas, Rekha returned to her hometown to attend nursing school and later found work as a nurse in Gurgaon. She eventually found love and got married in 2022. Rekha is grateful to the Sisters for the impact they had on her life, and she remains dedicated to helping others as a nurse.

Rekha’s story is a testament to the power of empowerment and the transformative impact that supportive figures can have on a person’s life. The Sisters of Asha Niwas played a critical role in Rekha’s journey, and her success is a testament to their unwavering commitment to helping those in need.

Married in January of 2022, Rekha marked a new chapter in her life, but her gratitude towards the Sisters of Asha Niwas never faded. Her time at the center had been a turning point, empowering her with the skills, confidence, and determination to succeed. Now, as a nurse, she continues to spread joy and bring comfort to those in need, always remembering the lessons she learned and the support she received at Asha Niwas. Rekha is a testament to the transformative power of community and the unwavering support of the Sisters. She is living proof that with hard work, determination, and a little help, anyone can overcome their obstacles and find happiness and fulfillment.