Partners
SAHER (Society for Awareness, Harmony, and Equal Rights)
Initially started as a youth group, Rama Shyam joined SAHER as a TISS intern and navigated SAHER into a structured organisation. SAHER soon expanded its focus to address the social, economic, and cultural disparities caused by communal conflict and violence. The organization aims to create an environment of communal harmony and equal rights through its diverse programs, which focus on empowering marginalised communities, particularly women and children in ghettoised urban settlements.
SAHER's work is centred on promoting peace and social justice by facilitating conflict resolution, empowering youth, and advocating for equitable access to basic entitlements. The organisation's efforts also involve addressing the impact of growing religious polarisation in the region, which has restricted the mobility and agency of women and youth, especially in areas like Jogeshwari. Through community development, youth leadership training, and awareness campaigns, SAHER works to break down social divisions and foster an inclusive, peaceful society where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive.
Project with MHI:
SAHER's program aims to empower young people and women in Mumbai's marginalised communities to think critically, participate in local governance, and access education, health, and employment opportunities. The program includes three main components:
- "Parwaaz" for enhancing critical thinking, decision making and socio-civic participation (awareness of gender equity, respect for diversity, leadership) through group sessions, sports activities, and civic engagement projects.
- "Neenv" for addressing distress and livelihood issues by providing psychosocial support, mental health services, and employability training with a focus on women.
- "Mohalla Hamaara" for fostering collective community action through resource centres and campaigns on child rights, mental health, gender equity, and peacebuilding. This will foster community engagement and address local developmental concerns.
Through these interventions, SAHER aims to build resilient, informed, and active citizens who contribute to a diverse and inclusive society.