Nandini, C2C Fellow
Each year since 2023, C2C supports young women from our partner sites across India in their pursuit of higher education, often helping them take the final steps toward a future that would have otherwise been out of reach. Two of our recent Fellows, Nandini and Arpita, are powerful examples of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.
Nandini
Nandini grew up in a large family of eight in Vrindavan after relocating from Bihar. Her father, once the sole income earner, lost his job in an accident, leaving the family in financial distress. Despite the pressure of household responsibilities and limited resources, Nandini stayed focused on her academics. Her hard work paid off when she scored 94% in her 12th grade Science exams, topping her district and making her whole family and school community proud.
She was determined to study engineering, but tuition costs put college out of reach. With support from the C2C Fellowship Program, Nandini enrolled at the University Institute of Technology in Himachal Pradesh, where she is now pursuing her B.Tech in Information & Technology with plans to graduate in 2028. She continues to perform at the top of her class and recently earned an additional scholarship from the university for her academic success, helping to alleviate the financial strain on her family even more.
Nandini’s long-term goal is to become a software engineer and use her education to help other girls gain access to opportunity through education.
“Without C2C, I would’ve had to give up on my dreams. They didn’t just support my education — they gave me my future, and a reason to believe in it.” – Nandini
Arpita
In Mumbai, Arpita grew up in a household where both parents work as housemaids. With limited income that mainly went to rent, the family prioritized survival, leaving little room for dreams. Arpita’s mother often skipped meals and her father ignored his health needs in order to feed the children. After completing her 10th standard, Arpita wanted to study science and become a nutritionist, but the cost of education put that goal out of reach.
Through the C2C Fellowship Program, Arpita was able to enroll in the B.Sc. Food & Nutrition program at Nirmala Niketan College. Today, she’s not only pursuing her degree, she’s also mentoring younger girls in her community. She teaches English, tech skills, and Vedic math, while helping them build self-confidence.
Arpita now sees herself not just as a student, but as a role model—and a changemaker.
“To the trustees and supporters of C2C, thank you. This is just the beginning. Thank you for believing in me.” - Arpita
Looking Ahead: The Next Cohort of Changemakers
Nandini and Arpita represent just two of the many Fellows from last year’s C2C cohort, each one navigating their own path to higher education with resilience, courage, and support. These stories are not exceptions; they are part of a growing movement of young women who are ready to lead.
As we prepare to launch our next round of Fellows in September, we’re reminded that the need is great, and the potential is even greater. With continued support, we’re ready to help more girls break barriers, pursue their goals, and create lasting change in their communities.
Stay tuned as we welcome a new group of C2C Fellows and continue building brighter futures, one girl at a time.