Menu
Kailash (name changed) an 11-year-old boy is one of the members of Aflatoun Club in Pune. As an active participant of Aflatoun activities, he began saving money in his piggy bank regularly. As soon as any elder in his family gave him money, he would put it in his piggy bank. He would tell his parents that as an Aflatoun he is saving money to buy necessary things such as school supplies and stationery. His father encouraged him to save too. He recalled that during COVID-19 lockdowns, his father who worked as a driver had difficulty finding work. The family was under tremendous economic duress. Kailash’s mother and father were trying to arrange funds to buy monthly groceries and falling short of money. This was the time when Kailash offered to open his piggy bank and support the family. To his parentssurprise, Kailash had saved about 500 rupees. The family used the money to buy the groceries. Kailash excitedly said “As an Aflatoun Young Leader, I used my savings to help my parents, I am so happy.”
Amboli is a small tribal village surrounded by hills, where the chirping of birds meet the rising sun and the playful laughter of children echo the streets. In such a place, lives a young girl named Isha Chaitya Umbersada. At just 13 years, Isha stood out as a bright student at the Zilla Parishad School in Amboli.
When the idea of the Aflatoun Bank was introduced at her school, by MelJol through the AI-LEAP Project, it sparked curiosity among the students. The idea was simple yet powerful: children would pool their small savings, learn the value of money, and use it for meaningful goals. It wasn’t long before Isha’s enthusiasm stood out. Her keen interest in understanding finances and her ability to motivate others led to her election as the bank’s President.
Under Isha’s leadership, the Aflatoun Bank transformed from a modest idea into a thriving success. Within just four months, the bank had grown to include 30 active members and accumulated total savings of ₹4,630. Leading by example, Isha herself saved ₹830 during this period, showcasing not just her financial discipline but also her unwavering commitment to the cause.
The secret to Isha’s success lay in her ability to inspire. She encouraged her peers to see saving not as a sacrifice, but as a gateway to their dreams. Through regular meetings, she shared stories of how small contributions could lead to big changes. The children are now beginning to dream – some see it as funds for new school supplies, while others see it as a step towards fulfillment of their financial goals.
Her journey from a curious learner to a decisive leader was not without challenges. Convincing her friends to join the initiative, organizing meetings, and ensuring accountability required patience and determination. Yet, Isha approached every hurdle with the same resolve that had won her the role of President.
Looking at the growing success of the Aflatoun Bank, one can’t help but see how it has become more than a savings initiative. Under Isha’s stewardship, it has evolved into a platform for empowerment, teaching children the value of teamwork, discipline, and long-term planning.
Similar to Isha, AI-LEAP Project is building leadership skills amongst young children to be leaders of tomorrow.