From shadows to sunshine
Inspiring journey of Javaid Ashraf from Sedow, Shopian
Gentle rustling of leaves, distant sound of birds; in the tranquil village of Sedow, nestled amidst the verdant valleys of Shopian, a tale of resilience and hope unfolds. This is the story of Javaid Ashraf (Name Changed), a boy whose journey embodies the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
Eight kilometers from the bustling main town, Javaid Ashraf’s family carved out a modest existence in the heart of Sedow. However, their tranquility was shattered when fate dealt them a cruel blow. In February 2016, at the tender age of 10, Javaid faced the harsh reality of losing his father to the cruel clutches of cancer.
The burden of providing for the family fell upon young Javaid’s shoulders. Despite his tender age, he toiled as a daily wage labourer, striving to fill the void left by his father’s absence. Yet, amidst the hardships, Javaid remained undeterred in his pursuit of knowledge. His aspirations of a brighter future, however, seemed like distant dream amidst the harsh realities of their financial struggles.
With unwavering determination, Javaid’s mother, Rafiqa, stood by his side, a pillar of strength in their time of need. But the weight of their circumstances threatened to crush their spirits. Overcome by the hardships, Rafiqa made the heart-wrenching decision to send Javaid to a Child Care Institution in Kulgam supported by the Yateem Foundation. Faced with insurmountable odds, Rafiqa made a sacrifice no mother should ever have to make.
In the halls of a Child Care Institution, Javaid found solace amidst the chaos of his life. Here, he was not just a boy burdened by responsibilities, but a child with dreams waiting to be realised. Being away from his family, Javaid couldn’t shake off the guilt that gnawed at his heart. His mother’s health deteriorated, and his siblings yearned for his guidance.
It was then that a glimmer of hope emerged from the darkness. Human Welfare Voluntary Organisation (HWVO) through the Community-Based Child Protection Group (CBCPG) reached out to Javaid’s mother, offering her support and guidance in her time of need.
Moved by their empathy, Rafiqa found renewed strength within herself. With their assurance of support, she made a decision that would reunite their fractured family once more.
With the unwavering support of the CBCPG, Javaid returned home, determined to carve out a better future for himself and his loved ones.
Enrolled in school, Javaid embraced each day with renewed vigour, his dreams burning brighter than ever before.
Through the combined efforts of the CBCPG and the support of organisations like Orphans in Need and Mission Vatslaya, Javaid’s family found a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
Haris Shah, the Human Welfare Voluntary Organisation (HWVO) Cluster Coordinator and District Lead, emphasises that the modest assistance the organisation has been able to secure for Javaid and his siblings has brought considerable change among the family members.
Syeda Asima, a counselor working at HWVO, regularly interacts with Javaid about his education and family, providing counseling and support as they navigate their journey towards a brighter future.
Today, Javaid Ashraf’s story serves as a beacon of hope for all those who dare to dream against all odds. In the quaint village of Sedow, amidst the rolling hills and whispering winds, the spirit of resilience lives on.
