My journey - From struggle to change
I was just 8 years old when my family moved from Uttar Pradesh to Mumbai in search of a better life. But instead of opportunities, we found hardship. With no income, I was forced to beg on the streets, collect plastic waste, and struggle to find food and water. I know what it feels like to sleep hungry and to see a meal as a rare treat.
Despite our struggles, my father never gave up on the power of education. He had suffered a lot due to a lack of schooling, and he didn’t want me to go through the same. One day, he showed me his savings—small chillars (coins) he had collected over time—and used them to enroll me in school. That day was one of the happiest moments of my life because I finally had a chance to change my future.
But life had more challenges ahead. When my sister fell ill with Tuberculosis, we ran from one hospital to another, desperately seeking treatment. Private hospitals refused to admit her due to our lack of money, and government hospitals were in such poor condition that we feared for her life. That pain and helplessness changed something deep inside me. I realized that the poor are often invisible to society—no one truly cares unless it benefits them.
That day, I made a vow: I would never turn my back on those in need. I promised myself that no one else should have to go through what we did.
The Birth of CreateTogether Foundation
With this determination, I founded CreateTogether Foundation (@createtogetherfoundation) in September 2014. I had no money, no support—just a burning desire to help others. I started by helping slum children get access to education and basic necessities.
At first, I worked alone, but as more people saw my dedication, volunteers began joining me. Slowly, word spread, and we gained sponsors who believed in our mission. Over the years, CreateTogether Foundation has grown into a network of 200+ volunteers across India, working in education, environment, empowerment, animal welfare, and humanitarian aid.
Today, after 10 years of working in the social sector, we have been able to impact over 15,000 lives. Whether it’s providing shoes to a child who has never owned a pair, ensuring a hungry person gets a meal, or helping someone get an education, every effort counts.
By Deepakur R Vishwakarma
