This year, One Foot Raised is supporting students like Soni at Tenuahi School in Hazaribag, India.

At just 14 years old, Soni has already faced more hardship than many experience in a lifetime.

Growing up in Tenuahi village in Jharkhand, India, she lost her father when she was very young. Since then, her mother has worked tirelessly to support the family despite ongoing financial hardship.

Like many children in remote tribal communities, Soni’s opportunities were limited. She found it difficult to focus on her studies while facing the challenges of daily life.

Everything changed when she enrolled at Tenuahi School, supported by Jesuit Mission’s local Jesuit partners.

“I love coming to school every day. I want to become an engineer so that I can serve my country.”

Soni

Today, Soni studies Hindi, English and Mathematics, enjoys sport, dance and singing, and looks forward to coming to school each day. Most importantly, she has discovered confidence and a dream for the future.

“I love coming to school every day and taking part in everything the school offers,” she says. “After completing my education, I want to become an engineer so that I can serve my country.”

Access to quality education

Tenuahi School currently educates nearly 300 students during the first half of the school year, providing children from disadvantaged tribal families with access to quality education in a safe and supportive environment.

Fr Amit Toppo SJ, Hazaribag Province Development Director, has seen the impact firsthand.

“The project gives children from disadvantaged tribal families a quality education, practical skills and values,” he says. “Students become more confident, disciplined and motivated to continue their education, making school a source of hope and opportunity for the local community. The visible impact is witnessed.”

You can walk alongside

This year, you can walk alongside Soni and other students like her through One Foot Raised.

Choose to walk 7.5km, 15km, 25km or 75km over 30 days and help Jesuit Mission’s local partners continue providing quality education for children in Hazaribag.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, Jesuit Mission supporters have already raised more than $15,000 to support students like Soni.

Every step you take and every dollar you raise helps more children stay in school, discover their potential and pursue the dreams that once felt out of reach.

As we celebrate the Feast of St Ignatius on Friday 31 July, take the first step in a challenge inspired by his invitation to always keep “one foot raised”, ready to respond to the needs of others.