Empowering Rural India Through Literature: Shaunya Kumar’s Non-Profit
Access to literature is a critical component of education, particularly in rural areas where students may lack exposure to books beyond their textbooks. Shaunya Kumar, a high school student from Minnesota, recognized this gap and decided to take action. Inspired by her love for reading and a life-changing experience at the India Philanthropy Alliance essay contest, Kumar founded Rural Literacy Empowerment (RLE) in 2023. Her goal? To provide diverse reading materials to underserved students in rural India and instill a passion for reading that lasts a lifetime.
Launching a Movement: The Origin Story of Rural Literacy Empowerment
Every great initiative has a humble beginning. For Shaunya Kumar, the spark that ignited Rural Literacy Empowerment was kindled during her freshman year when she won the India Philanthropy Alliance essay contest. This victory led her to the Stanford GIFT Summit, where she rubbed shoulders with seasoned philanthropists and absorbed their wisdom like a sponge.
Reflecting on her journey, Kumar shares, “I’ve had these ideas brewing for years, but it was that contest that really pushed me to take action. Sitting among those philanthropists, I felt a sense of empowerment. It was a lightbulb moment that made me realize I could make a difference.”
Fuelled by her own transformative experiences with books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, Kumar felt compelled to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, had access to literature that could broaden their horizons and provide a sense of representation and belonging. “Reading shouldn’t be a luxury; it should be a right,” she stresses.
Fostering a Love for Reading: Ensuring Genuine Engagement Beyond Academics
One of the core challenges for RLE is not just providing books but also ensuring that students truly enjoy reading. To address this, Kumar is collaborating with Vidya-Gyan USA, a nonprofit based in Minneapolis, to create a structured coaching system. By working with local school authorities and integrating literature into the curriculum, RLE aims to cultivate a culture of reading that extends beyond academic requirements. The pilot program at a partner school has shown promising results, with students embracing books as a source of joy and inspiration.
Challenges and Triumphs: Navigating the Path to Empowerment
Starting RLE was no easy feat for Kumar. One of the major hurdles she faced was the lack of mentorship in the nonprofit sector. “I was essentially navigating uncharted waters on my own,” she admits. Cold emails, countless phone calls, and unanswered inquiries characterized her early efforts. However, with the support of her first nonprofit partner, Dalit Solidarity, Kumar gained momentum and began to build a network of collaborators and supporters.
Balancing school, her nonprofit work, and personal commitments has been a juggling act for Kumar. Yet, driven by her passion and determination, she finds a way to prioritize effectively. “School always comes first, but RLE is my way of making a difference outside the classroom,” she explains.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Rural Literacy Empowerment
As RLE continues to grow, Kumar envisions expanding their learning programs to make a tangible impact in the field. With ongoing initiatives to support underserved schools in Uttar Pradesh and collaborate with local authors, she is committed to broadening the reach of RLE and fostering a love for reading among students in rural India.
Rural Literacy Empowerment stands as a beacon of hope, bridging the gap between underserved communities and the transformative power of literature. Shaunya Kumar’s dedication and vision are reshaping the educational landscape, one book at a time.
