A Newfound Independence: Asha’s Journey with Joyya
Joyya empowers people with literacy skills that open doors to independence and new opportunities. For Asha, learning to read Bengali has given her the confidence to navigate the city on her own—and the determination to keep learning and growing.
Growing up on a remote farm in Nepal, Asha had little access to education. As one of many siblings, she left school early, and after arriving in Kolkata, she realised that Bengali was the main language spoken.
Through Joyya’s literacy courses, Asha began learning to read and write in Bengali. Her motivation? Navigating the bustling city and, most importantly, visiting her daughter, who stays in a hostel a train ride away.
Until recently, Asha depended on fellow passengers and train conductors to tell her when to get off at the right train station. But on a recent trip, something remarkable happened—she realised she had gained the confidence to read the station signs herself. For the first time, she confidently stepped off the train, knowing she had found the right station on her own.
“I’m so proud that I can now go and see my daughter without any help,” Asha shares. And this is just the beginning. With Bengali as her steppingstone, she’s determined to learn English next. “I want to learn English to better communicate with people I meet.”
At Joyya, stories like Asha’s remind us that literacy isn’t just about words on a page—it’s about independence, confidence, and new possibilities.
Joyya's mission goes beyond education; we are dedicated to transforming communities through our six core services:
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Health – Providing clean-water projects and medical support to promote well-being.
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Education – Ensuring access to quality education through funding and tutoring for children.
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Legal/Finance – Offering legal assistance and interest-free loans to empower individuals and families.
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Vocational Training – Equipping people with skills and training for secure employment opportunities.
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Housing – Supporting families with emergency housing and loans for renovations.
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Social/Recreation – Creating community connections through events, outings, and physical activities.
Together, these services bring people together, fostering resilience and creating pathways to brighter futures.
