Empower disadvantaged girls in Indian slums

Young girls participating in the OSCAR Foundation's football and life skills programme display immense enthusiasm for the sport. However, they encounter resistance from their families and local communities due to their choice of playing football and wearing shorts. To address this challenge, a group of these young girls initiated a community awareness project named "Pehchaan," which means "One's Identity."

Pehchaan's mission was to engage with four communities in Mumbai, where young girls conducted surveys to gauge public opinion regarding female footballers' attire. They also organized events to educate parents about the practicality and comfort of shorts and jerseys for football. Furthermore, a signature campaign reached approximately 2,000 individuals, contributing to a positive shift in community perceptions and encouraging more girls to embrace football.

These girls serve as role models for younger peers, bravely claiming their space and advocating for their choices. As Priyanka, a Pehchaan mentee, put it: "A doctor wears a white coat, and the police wear their uniform. Similarly, shorts and jerseys are like uniforms for us (footballers). We want to play football wearing shorts."

"Our girls should also go to the playgrounds and play like everyone else. And if they want to wear shorts while playing, they must do so." Shilpa ( Parent, Cuffe Parade)

These conversations over the years have empowered these girls to understand and challenge gender stereotypes, recognizing the societal influences that perpetuate them. This ongoing dialogue has positively shaped their decision-making and behavior, making them inspiring figures in their communities.