About Kanthari
Kanthari: Empowering Social Change Leaders
Kanthari is a unique organization that provides training and scholarships to individuals who are passionate about creating social change. The organization was founded in 2005 by Sabriye Tenberken and Paul Kronenberg, both of whom are visually impaired. Their vision was to create a platform where people with disabilities, as well as those from marginalized communities, could receive the necessary training and support to become leaders in their respective fields.
The name "kanthari" comes from the Indian word for chili pepper, which is known for its ability to add spice and flavor to any dish. Similarly, kanthari aims to add spice and flavor to society by empowering individuals who have the potential to make a positive impact on their communities.
Kanthari's Scholarship-Based Training Program
Kanthari's flagship program is its scholarship-based training program that runs for seven months each year. The program is designed for individuals who have a passion for social change but lack the resources or opportunities needed to pursue their goals.
The training program covers various topics such as leadership development, project management, communication skills, fundraising strategies, advocacy techniques, and more. Participants also receive mentorship from experienced professionals in their field of interest.
One of the unique aspects of Kanthari's training program is that it focuses on hands-on learning rather than theoretical knowledge. Participants are encouraged to work on real-life projects during their time at Kanthari so that they can apply what they learn in a practical setting.
Upon completion of the program, participants receive a kanthari diploma and become part of an alumni network that spans across different countries and continents. This network provides ongoing support and opportunities for collaboration among graduates.
Impactful Projects by Kanthari Graduates
Over the years, kanthari has produced many successful graduates who have gone on to create significant social impact in their communities. Here are some examples:
1) Saji Thomas: Saji is a visually impaired person who graduated from kanthari in 2010. He went on to start a social enterprise called "Sparsham," which provides employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Sparsham has now expanded to multiple locations across India and employs over 100 people.
2) Nishtha Jain: Nishtha is a filmmaker who graduated from kanthari in 2009. She has since produced several award-winning documentaries that highlight social issues such as gender inequality, child labor, and environmental degradation.
3) Kehkashan Basu: Kehkashan is an environmental activist who graduated from kanthari in 2016. She founded the organization "Green Hope Foundation," which focuses on promoting sustainable development and empowering youth to become agents of change.
These are just a few examples of the many impactful projects that have been initiated by kanthari graduates. The organization's alumni network continues to grow, and its members are making significant contributions to society in various fields.
Kanthari's Impact on Society
Kanthari's impact goes beyond just the individuals it trains; it also contributes to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By providing opportunities for people with disabilities and those from marginalized communities, Kanthari challenges societal norms that often exclude these groups.
Moreover, Kanthari's focus on hands-on learning and practical skills development ensures that its graduates are equipped with the necessary tools to create sustainable change in their communities. This approach helps break down barriers between theory and practice, resulting in more effective solutions for social problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kanthari is an organization that stands out for its unique approach towards creating social change leaders. Its scholarship-based training program provides opportunities for individuals who may not have had access otherwise while also challenging societal norms around disability inclusion.
The impact of Kanthari can be seen through the many successful projects initiated by its graduates, as well as the ongoing support and collaboration within its alumni network. Overall, Kanthari is a shining example of how investing in individuals can lead to significant positive change in society.