We’ve been eagerly awaiting this day, with so much planning, preparation, and countless follow-ups with Salesforce. The air is filled with nervous excitement and anticipation as the big moment finally approaches. Today is the day when Salesforce world leaders visit our CKE center, a momentous occasion for us and the communities we work with. As the day drew near, we were filled with concern over potential challenges, especially with the weather. What if it rained? Our center is vulnerable to flooding, and we worried about where our esteemed guests would sit—would they be willing to navigate the muddy paths or even sit on the floor?
But sometimes, the universe has a way of supporting your efforts when you least expect it. The day arrived with perfect weather—no rain, just clear skies and dry conditions. We had a panel discussion scheduled at the office, and in our excitement to arrive early, we left two hours in advance for a journey that usually takes only 45 minutes. Yet, as fate would have it, we were stuck in traffic and took a wrong turn. Our hearts raced as we watched the clock tick away. Thankfully, we arrived just 10 minutes before the program was set to begin. Talk about a test of patience!
Upon completing the formalities at the entrance, the program began. Several other NGOs were also invited, but unfortunately, due to our delay, we missed the opportunity to interact with them beforehand. Our team was the first to present, with Yuva sharing the inspiring story through a video, as she couldn’t join in person due to important office work. Despite her absence, her message resonated deeply with the audience. She and Madhavi conceived the idea of starting CKE, detailing the leadership practices that have been put in place. When Madhavi took over, the discussion turned to the present-day challenges they have encountered and managed, to sustain the school in the slum areas. The leaders asked tough, thoughtful questions, such as how the trust of the community has been earned.
Madhavi explained that when we first enter a slum area, we don't immediately talk about education. Instead, we ask the families about their most pressing issues. Many speak of health concerns, so we organize health camps, provide medical supplies, and follow up with them. Slowly, we start discussing education—why their children aren’t attending school regularly. Parents share stories of their children needing to care for siblings, work, or even beg to help support the family. To address these barriers, we open informal classrooms near their huts, making it easier for the kids to attend after completing their daily chores. It's a challenge to ensure regular attendance, but with patience and persistence, we see progress. In just a few months, the children begin coming to school every day.
After the engaging Q&A session, it was time to head to our CKE center for the leaders to see our work firsthand. Accompanied by five or six leaders on the bus, we took the 45-minute journey to visit two of our branches. Upon arrival, we were filled with pride as the leaders were visibly impressed by how we manage to run a school with temporary infrastructure. The children greeted them with a heartfelt welcome speech, and though a bit shy at first, the atmosphere quickly transformed once we started the painting activity.
To our surprise and delight, the leaders didn’t hesitate to join the children on the floor, engaging wholeheartedly in the activity. It was heartwarming to see world leaders, often thought of as distant figures, sitting alongside the children, painting, singing, and even telling stories. Language barriers disappeared in those moments—communication flowed effortlessly through creativity and joy. It was a powerful reminder of the universality of childhood and the shared human experience.
Though they initially planned to stay for only 30–40 minutes, time seemed to stand still. Everyone became so involved that the leaders nearly missed their next engagement! We were deeply touched by their willingness to stay with the children on such a personal level.
It was a day that left us not only feeling inspired but also validated our vision. Thank you to the leaders who visited and for the many lives touched in such a short time. Your presence meant the world to us and the communities we serve.
This experience has reaffirmed our commitment to the children, their families, and our work. No matter the challenges, we will continue to push forward. Because when the world shows up for you—literally and metaphorically—there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
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