WOHAA Winners 2023-24 Grace and Martha’s visit to India
The Wings of Hope Achievement Awards (WOHAA) Overall Winners of 2023/24, Grace and Martha, were recently taken on a fully expenses paid trip to India to visit two international projects supported by the programme. Accompanied by CEO Rajni Sriram and Senior Programme Manager Sarah Hogg, the journey provided a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of the charity’s work.
On Thursday, 27th February, the group departed from Heathrow, arriving in Chennai on Friday afternoon.
A Visit to the Slum Tuition Centre, Perambur, N.Chennai
The visit began on Saturday, 1st March, with a trip to the Slum Tuition Centre, a long-standing project led by Mr Baskar Sunderam from SAVE Trust. The charity has supported this initiative for over a decade, providing educational opportunities to disadvantaged children. Seven students shared their experiences, expressing how extra tuition in different subjects helped them achieve good grades resulting them in getting admission to local Universities to read Psychology, Nursing and Primary school teacher degrees.
Cultural Exploration and Historical Visits
Sunday was dedicated to exploration, offering the team a chance to immerse themselves in Chennai’s rich cultural and historical heritage. They visited:
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where vibrant market stalls displayed beautifully handcrafted flower garlands for visitors to offer in prayer.
- St. Thomas Mount, a site of deep spiritual and historical significance, where they witnessed a breathtaking sunset over the city.
- A visit to Santhome Cathedral built over the tomb of Saint Thomas one of the apostles of Jesus Christ, was very special. It was built in 16th Century and attracts visitors from all over the world.
School Visits: Education in Action
Over the next few days, the group visited the school that has been supported by The Wings of Hope for over 20 years. They were welcomed with a grand fanfare, featuring a marching band, and warmly received by school leader Mr Loganathan along with dedicated staff members.
Inside the classrooms, students in the primary school eagerly showcased their academic projects, covering subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and e-library research. Grace and Martha also took on the role of teachers, leading engaging sessions for students aged 6 to 14. They taught:
- Basic French phrases to introduce students to a new language. They were quick learners!
- British Nursery rhymes for younger children, creating a fun and interactive learning experience
Creative writing for older students, encouraging self-expression and storytelling
Cultural Exchange & Performances
A special Cultural Exchange was held in the school hall, allowing students to showcase the creative side of their curriculum. Their performances included:
- A play reflecting the issue of climate change. Local traditional dances, a fusion of Eastern and Western musical instruments. A delight to watch!
- A spectacular Yoga performance
- Mallakhamba, a traditional Indian sport combining gymnastics and aerial yoga, performed with remarkable strength and discipline on a tall wooden pole inside the Hall!
Grace and Martha also contributed to the exchange by delivering a presentation on life and history in London, followed by a musical performance where they played guitar and sang for the students.
Meeting with the Deputy High Commission
Another highlight of the trip was the visit to the British Deputy High Commission in Chennai, where the team met Shalini Medepalli, Deputy to the Head of Mission. This insightful meeting provided an opportunity to:
- Learn about the role of the Deputy High Commission and its work in India
- Share the WOHAA Programme, its mission, and its impact
- We also shared this unique opportunity with the students of our supported school in Chennai. A once in a lifetime opportunity for all of us !
Last but not the least we also were able to meet Mrs Soumaya Swaminathan, Deputy Director General of Programmes to the World Health Organization(WHO) and Chief Scientist of WHO. An extraordinary woman who shared her journey with us and now spends a lot of time, taking over the legacy of her famous’ Father of the Indian Green Revolution’ – Dr. M.S. Swaminathan.
Reflections on the Visit
Grace, WOHAA Winner 2023/24, shared:
“These students embraced learning as a gift to be shared and enjoyed, as their creative and sophisticated work blew me away on every occasion. Both the school and the tuition centre were brimming with success, and it shone through into every area of school life: their attitude to learning; the projects they pursued; and their characters of integrity, kindness and respect. I am honoured to have experienced and contributed to such wonderful people.”
Martha, WOHAA Winner 2023/24, expressed:
“Visiting the school and the tuition centre was such an amazing opportunity; hearing the students speak with such passion about their studies was truly inspiring. The teachers were very kindhearted people and I admired their dedication to giving these students the education they deserve. I am so grateful to have been a part of this experience and see, firsthand, how much intelligence and drive these young individuals hold.”
Sarah Hogg, Senior Programme Manager, reflected:
“As a former educator, witnessing the students’ passion for learning was truly humbling. Their eagerness to absorb knowledge, despite the challenges they face, was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education. Seeing their enthusiasm and determination reaffirmed the importance of the work being done to support their futures—it was an experience I will carry with me for a long time.”
Mrs. Rajni Sriram, CEO & Co founder
“I have been bringing Overall WOHAA Winners to Chennai for so many years, and I am amazed at the transformational change that our UK School students have made to the lives of these students both at the School as well as the Slum Tuition Project. “
Sandhdaya, 2nd Year Phycology Student from the Tuition Project, opened up:
“This tuition centre has been lifeline for me. Now I can learn, grow, and dream beyond my life. This tuition centre help me so much. Now, I dream to do big things. Wings of Hope and Save Trust make me believe I can.”
The experience was truly unforgettable—a chance to witness the profound impact of education in transforming lives. It was a testament to the resilience, talent, and potential of these young learners—an inspiring reminder that with the right support, the power of knowledge can break barriers and shape a brighter future.
