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An Academician, A Single Mother; A Woman’s Profession Becomes Her Driving Force

Garima Sawlani, Principal, Kharadi Branch of Orchids The International School waded through a challenging circumstance when her marriage of 13 years fell apart.

An Academician, A Single Mother; A Woman’s Profession Becomes Her Driving Force
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Academicians plant the seed which later germinates into trees that lead the way towards an ameliorated future. Even in face of certain adversities, their path doesn’t waver. Their commitment is what produces trailblazers and changemakers.

One such eminent academician, Garima Sawlani, Principal, Kharadi Branch of Orchids The International School waded through a challenging circumstance when her marriage of 13 years fell apart due to infidelity and violence and she became a single mother.

In a tell-all interview with Mumbai Live, Sawlani opens up about the opposition she faced and how her profession as an educator became a driving force in helping her understand the dynamics of raising a child.

How did you wade through the challenges of being a single mother?

The challenges of being a single parent are understated. Juggling the financial, emotional, social, and work responsibilities is not easy, in my case, it was my career and family that were a huge support. However, there were times when I had to handle the dual responsibilities of being both parents, and my self-doubts were at their peak. Like it is for any single parent, one look at your child’s face you get all the courage and determination that is required to beat all odds.

How did your profession as an educator help you tackle this adversity?

My school life has given me a deep understanding of the mindset and emotions of children who face a similar situation of constant conflict between their parents. While dealing with these children, I have concluded that children are the worst sufferers in such circumstances. Their innocence does not let them accept the myriad of facets in play which makes them feel vulnerable. I did not want my son to go through this emotion and hence with all affirmation and conviction, I decided to separate.

As a staunch advocate of financial independence amongst women, what are your tips for women looking to make brave decisions?

The most reliable partner that any female can count on is her career. It keeps one rational, independent and confident. Achieving financial empowerment is a goal that no woman should underestimate. At the most basic level, it makes women feel safer and confident and, in the process, helps their children adapt to a more gender-neutral society that does not look at women as mere homemakers. So women being financially secure is not just about their well-being, it is for the well-being of the whole generation.

As an educator yourself, how have you ensured that the school imbibes values that you resonate with amongst the children?

At the school, we provide concessions in fees to the children of single mothers. To add to the values, the school does not discriminate based on caste, religion, or even physical disabilities when it comes to appointing a teacher or admitting any student. The school has also added various courses like Robotics, Financial Literacy, Horticulture, Life skills, etc. to ensure that the children are exposed to a wide spectrum of options. We believe in providing holistic development along with the technologically advanced structure by providing equal attention to every child to overcome any challenges in the overall development.

Sawlani's unwavering commitment to education and her beliefs has had a ripple effect on not just her son, but also the school which has propelled its students to make independent and brave choices.

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