My name is Bharathi N.B. and I study in class 9, at the YAS National High School, Subramanyapura, Bangalore. I am writing this to tell you how my life has changed because of the Learning Links Foundation & Dell Youth Connect Program.

I lost my parents when I was only 3 years old and was brought up by my maternal aunt and uncle. They have been very supportive and caring but nobody has been able to take the place of my parents. I still miss them so much.

My aunt and uncle run a dairy farm. When I was in class VII they wanted me to stop studying. According to them whatever I had studied till then was enough for a girl. But my neighbours came as guardian angels and convinced my aunt & uncle to let me at least complete my studies till Class X.

Honestly I do not want to leave my school and my friends. I want to continue my studies so that I can be independent and stand on my own feet. At times I feel depressed and miss my parents so much. I just wanted one golden opportunity to prove to my aunt & uncle that given a chance I can use the knowledge gained out of schooling and help them in their farm. This opportunity came in the form of Dell YouthConnect Program (DYC). My teacher explained about the technology training provided to the children from neighborhood in the Government High School, Uttarahalli under the DYC Program. When I came to know that we would get opportunity to work on the computers and more importantly it was free of cost; I was very excited and joined the Explore@myworld.com Program implemented by Learning links Foundation (LLF) with support from DYC Program.

The teacher from LLF was very patient and in 12 days time helped us to create a digital project. He asked us to think about the problems in our neighbourhood and find solutions for it. It was a novel experience for me. I listened to others, gave my views, worked in groups. I really felt proud when my friends appreciated my ideas. I learnt the use of Word Processor, Spreadsheet, Painting & Drawing and also Multimedia Presentation. We also got the opportunity to collect information from various CDs and Internet. On the last day of the project each one got a chance to present our work to the entire class. I have never had so much fun learning new technology tools and life skills which are so necessary in today’s world.

The teacher not only taught us computers but also to work with each other, to research for information and most of all he gave us the confidence that we all had the capability to make a difference in the society around us. I feel that my dream of being independent is going to come true. Throughout the project I have been thinking about the ways I can help my uncle in his work. I will use the new learnings to help my family at the dairy farm. I can maintain records, research new ideas and help them in their business. Maybe I can also take help from my teacher at LLF.

I invited my uncle and aunt during the showcasing session of our project. They were completely thrilled to see me confidently explain everything. I could see how happy it made them. I am sure now they will think twice before asking me to discontinue my studies. I will also help them in all possible ways as they are the ones who are taking care of me. I owe this new found confidence to Dell and Learning Links Foundation. Thank you all for giving me direction.