International Women’s Day was celebrated on 8 Mar 2026 at Sevalaya’s centre in Kasuva village, Tiruvallur. Gita Gopal, Co-founder and President – A Future for Every Child and Anusuya Rao, Executive Director – A Future for Every Child, graced the occasion as Chief Guests. Sevalaya volunteer Advocate Saraswathi, along with Eve, Martha and Archana, volunteers from England, Scotland and Canada, also participated in the event.
A Future for Every Child is an organisation working to support education and career development of youth leaving Child Care Institutions. AFEC works with Sevalaya on this initiative for youth across TamilNadu.
Speaking on the occasion, Anusuya Rao said, “Women have faced many obstacles throughout history, including social restrictions and discriminatory practices. We need to protect women’s rights and work towards equality of men and women”.
Gita Gopal in her speech said, “My father had two daughters but no sons, but he never treated us differently and believed we should get the same opportunities that a boy would. At the age of 17, he sent me away from home for my studies, even when many criticised this decision. I am narrating this because sometimes all we need is a single person to believe in us in order to succeed. I see courage in every one of you, many of you have faced challenges and responsibilities at a very young age but have crossed those hurdles and succeeded in your education. Do not limit yourselves to small dreams. Dream big, work harder and believe in yourself”.
Advocate Saraswathi in her speech said, “We need to believe in ourselves before believing in others. Look within yourself and work towards your goals”. Volunteer Archana said, “Women in my country are scripting success in various fields. I too would be a successful woman one day”. Eve and Martha said, “A woman can do everything that a man can do. Women are making progress across all fields today”.
The monthly manuscript magazine ‘Vidiyal’ prepared by students with the guidance of teachers was released on the occasion. Students watched a video on ‘Mindset Motivation’. Earlier Sujatha P, Head – ERP, Sevalaya welcomed the gathering and spoke about Bharathiyar poems that celebrate womanhood. She said AFEC has been supporting young girls’ futures through Sevalaya and explained about Sevalaya’s various activities.
Students presented engaging cultural performances. Vijaya R, Head – Education, Sevalaya delivered the Vote of Thanks. Mementos were presented to the Chief Guests by Kanchana S, Head – Homes and Value Education, Sevalaya.
The day was also celebrated at Sevalaya’s centres in Ambattur, Uthiramerur, Dharmapuri, Zamin Endathur and Thanjavur.
