Amidst of the pandemic, when the entire nation has come together in support for those afflicted by COVID, 14-year old, Ayesha Jacob, from Mumbai, also came forward this summer and planned to utilize her hobby of baking to raise funds for underprivileged families to survive through this difficult time. She not only served 100 cupcakes to the frontline staff at Cooper Hospital in Mumbai, but she also raised 20,000 rupees, which she intends to donate to 30 underprivileged families with children who go to government schools with Vibha’s help.
Below is an account of Ayesha’s interview by a volunteer-
A short 2-3 line introduction (Name, Age, School, hobbies)
Hi everyone, I’m Ayesha Jacob- a 14 year old who goes to Oberoi International School, Mumbai. In my free time, I love to bake, play football, play the piano, paint and participate in MUNs.
How did you come up with this idea for a fundraiser? What inspired you?
Last year, during summer holidays, I had seen people online using their baking skills to raise funds for giving back to the society. I was inspired to create a project of my own. It started out just as a thought, but I wasn’t confident that I could actually carry it out. However, after discussing it with my parents, I decided to pursue it. Combining my hobby with the elements of business, I decided to donate the funds to one of Vibha’s causes. This is because I wanted to help underprivileged families get through the pandemic in any way I could, and fundraising for Vibha was an excellent way to do so.
What was the most enjoyable part of this activity?
I honestly don’t think I can choose- I loved every single part of it! From calculating the costing of materials and sourcing inventory, to designing the packaging, to marketing the product and of course baking all the items, each component filled me with pure joy. I also found that my planning, organization and baking skills improved significantly. Once I finished the project last summer, I couldn’t wait to recommence it this year- I spent the year researching and brainstorming ideas on how I could improve it this summer, during my school holidays.
Why did you choose to donate funds to Vibha over other organizations?
After hearing about the organization, I looked up their website. I loved their motto and all the different programs they ran so I chose to donate to them. Last year, I was extremely pleased after I saw the impact of my funds. Since it is run solely by volunteers, I knew that all the money I raised could go directly to those in need, and there would be no leakages.
What message would you like to give to other Vibha donors, beneficiaries and volunteers?
Let’s continue to support Vibha in various ways, and help them reach all their fundraiser goals! The work that Vibha workers have done, especially throughout the pandemic is truly admirable.