It’s only the youth who can create a positive difference in society.
It’s only the youth who can create a positive difference in society.
For the last 25 years, Sangeeta Sharma has been in the field of education having worked as an Assistant Professor and Dean at Aravali Institute of Technical Studies, Udaipur. She is also an entrepreneur and a social activist.
Sangeeta Sharma hails from a Bengali family but was born and raised in Udaipur. Her grandfather, Amrit Lal Ji, a well-known personality, came to Udaipur before India's independence. He served as a teacher of Mathematics and English during the time of Maharana Bhopal Singh Ji, teaching prominent figures such as Maharana Bhagwat Singh Ji and Rao Saheb at the palace. He also taught Mohan Lal Ji Sukhadia, the former chief minister of Rajasthan. On her grandfather's advice, Sangeeta and her entire family moved from Dhaka to Udaipur, and gradually established deep roots in the city.
Highlighting her achievements, Sangeeta Sharma proudly shares that she has received the 'Best Teacher' award from Hindustan Zinc Ltd. Additionally, she was honored with the 'Women of Substance' Award by the Aravali Foundation for her social initiatives.
When she was at Aravali Institute of Technical Studies, Sangeeta Sharma gained valuable insights from the teaching environment there. She was recognized for her contribution by influential figures of the institution like the founder Mr. Om Agarwal, the college head Mr. Dhabhai, and the Vice Chancellor Mr. Ajay Sharma. She takes pride in being appreciated for her contributions and dedication, firmly believing that one’s commitment to work brings the greatest satisfaction, which she considers an achievement in itself. Her dedication and her result-oriented approach, and her heartfelt efforts have defined her journey.
Reflecting on her early days, Sangeeta Sharma shares that she completed her education at Rajasthan Mahila Vidyalaya, a prestigious 109-year-old institution. She continues to contribute to the education of students of her alma-mater through initiatives like creating a book bank facility in the institution.
Sangeeta Sharma draws inspiration from Dr. P. Sundaram, the Dean of Home Science College and the Charter President of Rotary Club Udaipur Meera, who embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. Her family has also been quite supportive in all her endeavors.
Talking further about her role models, Sharma says she looks up to her parents, brothers and sisters as her greatest source of inspiration. She also values the appreciation and guidance she received from her in-laws.
Shedding light on her personal life, Sangeeta Sharma shares that she married her friend in an inter-caste union in Rajasthan. Her in-laws, who are well-educated, supported her throughout her journey. Sangeeta is a proud mother of two, and her daughter-in-law is a double gold medalist. Notably, Sharma completed her education after her marriage, highlighting her commitment to personal growth and learning.
Sharing her educational journey, Sangeeta Sharma says she holds a B.Sc from Home Science College, Udaipur, an MA in Public Administration, and an M.Sc in Computer Science. Additionally, she pursued a course in Food Production from a government institute, inspired to do so by her own venture, Mom’s Ghar ka Khana.
Mom’s Ghar Ka Khana is an initiative of hers which caters to customized food orders, primarily serving patients and the elderly, tailoring meals to their specific needs. The food is prepared exclusively by the women in her family. Sangeeta’s vision is to expand her food business to financially empower household women, enabling them to fulfill their aspirations independently. She is also planning to launch an entrepreneurship project soon, with another venture on the horizon.
Delving deeper into her venture, Mom’s Ghar ka Khana, Sangeeta Sharma explains that she chose to work with women because cooking is a skill that comes more naturally to them compared to other professions like tailoring or beauty services, which require formal training. She recognized the opportunity to address the lack of availability of healthy food options while also promoting women's upliftment and empowerment. Her venture focuses on providing nutritious breakfast and lunch options, and Sangeeta aspires to extend her support to underprivileged women through this initiative.
Last year was quite challenging for Sangeeta Sharma as she served as the President of the Rotary Club Udaipur (Yuva) from July 1, 2023, to 30 June 2024. During her tenure, she focused on projects about women's health, particularly guiding pregnant women on their eating habits through a project called Paripurna, aimed at benefiting both mothers and their children. Sharma also prioritized mental health initiatives and worked closely with the Rotary District Governor Elect, Dr. Rakhi Gupta from Jaipur, who entrusted her with a significant leadership role.
This year, Sangeeta Sharma has been given the position of District Chairman for the ‘No to Tobacco’ campaign, where she actively works to combat tobacco addiction. As part of this initiative, she facilitates rehabilitation efforts through expert-led sessions, helping individuals overcome their addictions, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Sangeeta Sharma shares how Chetas Healthcare Hospital, in collaboration with Dr. R.K. Sharma, a psychiatrist from Bangalore, conducted life skills and mental health sessions in various schools last year during her tenure as Rotary Club President. They also visited women’s and men’s jails, working to address the challenges faced by inmates, helping them become better individuals, and preparing them to reintegrate into society with dignity. This year, they aim to expand their initiative by teaching the inmates life skills with the support of teachers. Additionally, they have set up a counseling center at Chetas Hospital, where psychologists conduct lessons to provide further guidance and support.
Sangeeta Sharma reflects on how life is full of ups and downs, drawing inspiration from a song by Rabindranath Tagore titled "Ekla Chalo Re." She explains the meaning of this beautiful song, which encourages individuals to stay motivated on their chosen path. The essence of the lyrics conveys that once you have made a decision, you should walk forward with determination, regardless of the challenges you face or the lack of support from others. Embracing this philosophy, Sharma finds strength in solitude and fearlessness.
Sangeeta Sharma shares a glimpse of her struggles, emphasizing that embarking on any new endeavor often brings challenges such as workplace politics, backbiting, and unmet expectations. Despite these obstacles, she believes in maintaining a positive outlook and fostering a happy environment at work. Sharma advises that when others attempt to create hurdles or problems, responding with calmness allows you to rise above the negativity, ultimately becoming an inspiration to those around you. She firmly believes that learning emerges from struggles, stating, "Without struggles, there is no learning."
Advising the youth, Sangeeta Sharma emphasizes the importance of working with full dedication in whatever field they choose, without seeking shortcuts. She believes that when you approach work step-by-step, it leads to greater results. Additionally, Sharma stresses the need to develop a sense of belonging with wherever one works.
She encourages the youth to join Rotary Club Yuva and contribute to the well-being of the underprivileged, taking responsibility for creating a better world around them. She further advises them to do one good deed daily and help the needy, observing the positive impact it can make in their lives.