A Heartwarming Journey: Adopted 50 years ago, Sharmilla returned to the villages where she was born

Fifty years ago, a six-year-old girl named Sharmilla living an orphanage in rural Maharashtra, India, was adopted by a loving American a loving couple. They took her to New York, where she was provided with a wonderful life -- far removed from her birthplace. Today, half a century later, she decided to return to her roots, to connect with the place where she was born, and to generously give
back to the community she comes from.

For decades, Sharmilla Klestzick, a dedicated Special Learning Consultant (SLC) teacher at SAR

Academy in New York, felt a calling to reconnect with her origins. Reaching out to Gabriel Project Mumbai (GPM), she expressed her dream of returning to her homeland to volunteer in any capacity she could. Her expertise in personalized learning and innovative instruction excited the education team at GPM, and they welcomed her with open arms.

With her husband David and their four children supporting her journey, Sharmilla embarked on a two-week mission that would leave a lasting impression on many, as well as on herself. Her destination was the tribal enclave of Mokhada, a four-hour drive from Mumbai. There she taught practical and conversational English to students in their final year of schooling as well as giving special English classes to grade school children in the villages.

Through games, songs, and engaging exercises, Sharmilla brought English lessons to life for the students. Her creative teaching methods captivated the young minds, and made the learning a joyful experience. The students eagerly participated, soaking up every minute of their time with her.

In her free time, Sharmilla immersed herself in the local culture. She was warmly invited into villagers' homes, where they all shared stories over glasses of chai and indulged in Indian sweets. These moments of connection were deeply impactful for Sharmilla.

"It’s a very emotional and meaningful visit for me," she said. "It is wonderful to meet the people and experience the culture from where I was born."

Sharmilla's commitment to giving back extended beyond the classroom. She also volunteered at a health camp for malnourished children, working closely with GPM's medical support staff. Her dedication and compassion left a profound impression on the community.

Kenneth Dsouza, Director of GPM India, was also moved. "I find it so wonderful to see a ‘Daughter of India’ returning to her birthplace with such a strong desire to volunteer and give back to her people," he said.

Sharmilla's journey is a testament to the enduring bonds of heritage and the power of giving back. Her story is an inspiration, reminding us that it is never to late to reconnect with one's roots. And that we all have the power to make a positive difference in the world.

Meet Pradip, the 'Dancing Teacher' at Gabriel Project Mumbai

Pradip Kadu is not your typical science teacher. The 25-year-old with a Bachelor of Science in Physics,
spends much of his time with his students dancing.

Yes, dancing.

Take a look at the lively video to see Pradip the beloved “Dancing Teacher” in action at the GPM classes in the tribal villages of Mokhada.

Pradip is from a small village called Morchondi and he understands the challenges faced by children living in underserved tribal villages to attain an education. After his university studies he returned to his village determined to give children in his community a chance to learn about science in a fun and engaging way.

 “I love to teach students their subjects,” Pradip says, “I love to teach them through sports, songs, dance and stories…classes in science and math should also promote life skills… I have observed that children remember lessons faster through singing, and after learning by doing, children become happy.”

As far as educators go, Pradip is a treasure. "We encourage the passion of our teachers to teach in innovative ways to best educate the children in our community,” says Education Officer Rohit Jadhav: “Pradip's pedagogic approach is an example of this."

GPM is fortunate to have Pradip on staff. As GPM Founding Director Jacob Sztokman says "It is simply enchanting to see the kids so excited to learn from Pradip. It is not just singing and dancing. It is also fun and excitement to learn that brings children to love coming to class and explore the world around them. This love of learning that will hold the students in good steads for their lives ahead."