Ms. Nirmala Kokate Honoured with the RCB Somchand Parikh Award for Best Teacher
Dear respected members of Bhavishya Yaan and the Rotary Club of Bombay, thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude. I am Nirmala Kokate, a proud Bhavishya Yaan alumna and currently a Vidya teacher at Lighthouse.
I still remember the day Bhavishya Yaan became a part of my life. I was in the 6th standard, a little girl from a very simple family, walking into class. It felt like stepping into a new world. At Bhavishya Yaan, we were taught computers and English. Along with academics, we also had annual day celebrations, picnics, summer camps, and Christmas parties. Those special experiences made us feel valued and loved.
My classmates and I learned countless lessons at Bhavishya Yaan that helped shape our personalities. It taught us that no matter where we come from, we can grow to become confident individuals. It gave us the courage to chase our dreams.
After school, I pursued my education and, in due course, I completed my graduation and post-graduation. Today, I stand here with so much pride. I was once a Bhavishya Yaan student, then I joined as a volunteer at Lighthouse, and now I have the privilege of serving as a Vidya teacher. It is a journey I never imagined for myself. I consider myself very fortunate.
I am grateful to Ekta ma’am and Asha ma’am from the Rotary Club of Bombay, and Manisha ma’am and the Vidya team, for their guidance and their belief in me, which has helped me become the teacher I am today. Because of them, I have become a better version of myself.
The strongest inspirations in my life have been my mother and my brother. Growing up, I watched them work very hard and support our family. Today, my brother Nikhil is a CRPF officer. His courage and discipline motivate me every single day to give my best in whatever I do.
I believe in the principle of learning, and I am committed to giving back. Teaching little children at Lighthouse has been very rewarding and satisfying. I aim to make a positive impact on these children’s lives by encouraging them to pursue their goals.
Finally, I want to say this: thank you for believing in children like me and helping us become the people we are today. Thank you so much.