.jpg "Empowering Future Leaders: ICG Medical's Commitment to Supporting Financially Underprivileged Girls")
At ICG Medical, we believe empowering young minds is the cornerstone of a brighter future. Our engagement with the Udayan Care NGO exemplifies our commitment to nurturing the potential of financially underprivileged girls in India. Through two significant initiatives, we have been able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these young individuals.
Udayan operates 14 such “Homes” for young orphaned and abandoned children across the National Capital Region (NCR). The ICG Foundation has adopted two of these homes, each housing around 12 girls aged 5 to 17. These girls receive not only financial support for their schooling, clothing, and meals but also the warmth and care of a broader family. Our employees in both the UK and India sponsor Christmas gifts and organise outings, such as picnics, bowling, and visits to game arcades. These moments of joy and togetherness create lasting memories and a sense of belonging.
In the rural / semi-rural areas surrounding our Gurgaon and Noida offices, we mentor girls from financially underprivileged backgrounds. These girls, aged 16 to 23, are typically in school or college. Our mentorship sessions, held one Sunday each month at the ICG Gurgaon office, focus on topics often missing from their academic curriculum. Through discussions on building self-confidence, interviewing for jobs, communication and presentation skills, and conflict management, we aim to equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life.
One of the inspiring stories to emerge from our mentorship program is that of Deepa (name changed to protect her identity). A few years ago, Deepa was a shy schoolgirl from a semi-rural area near Gurgaon, living in a small apartment with her family. Her parents, unable to afford a larger residence or private education, kept her in a protective environment.
Deepa enrolled in the Udayan Shalini Fellowship (USF) program, which offers a small scholarship and mentorship for five years, covering two years of high school and three years of university education. As her mentor, I had the privilege of guiding her through this transformative period.
Initially hesitant to speak in public, Deepa gradually blossomed into a confident young woman. Her journey from a girl who conversed only in her local dialect to one who handled MC duties on stage in English is nothing short of remarkable. Regular mentorship sessions at the ICG Medical office played a crucial role in this transformation.
Upon graduating, Deepa faced the daunting task of securing a job. Despite her initial self-doubt, she excelled in her internship interview with our COO, Beth. Working late evening shifts to align with the UK time zone, Deepa had to navigate societal expectations and gossip in her neighbourhood. Yet, she persevered, and her success has brought not only personal growth but also admiration from her community.
Today, Deepa's contributions significantly support her family, and her neighbours look up to her achievements with pride. This journey of empowerment and resilience is a testament to the impact of mentorship and the unwavering belief in one's potential.
The story of Deepa is just one of many that demonstrate the profound impact of ICG Medical's mentorship programs. Our collective effort, led by Rajnish Virmani and supported by leaders like Anuj, Suman, and Rahul, is paving the way for these young women to achieve their dreams and break free from the constraints of their circumstances. By empowering these girls, we are not just changing individual lives but also fostering a brighter future for entire communities.
Our CEO, Adrian Tracey, has also addressed the girls regularly, underscoring the importance of education and personal development. His involvement reflects the deep commitment of our leadership to this cause.
At ICG Medical, we are proud to be a part of these girls' journeys, helping them realise their dreams and aspirations. Our partnership with Udayan Care NGO and our dedicated mentorship programs are steps toward creating a more equitable and empowered future for all.
At ICG Medical, we are committed to continuing this journey of empowerment, ensuring that more girls like Deepa can thrive and succeed. Together, we can create a world where every girl, regardless of her background, has the chance to become a confident, capable, and empowered leader.
