We had the honour of having New Zealand High Commissioner – designate to India, Her Excellency Ms Joanna Kempkers and her husband Mr Timothy John Markwell visiting us on 22 February. Dr Kiran warmly welcomed Her Excellency to Kanak Durga slum community where the guests spent time interacting with the Asha’s University students, Women’s Association and Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) and visiting the community.
Her Excellency Ms Joanna Kempkers and her husband Mr Timothy Markwell are warmly welcomed at Kanak Durga centre.
On their first visit to Asha, Ms Kempkers and her husband were fascinated with how Asha has been able to transform the lives of the slum residents. While the Women’s Association shared their journeys from being restrained into the four walls of their homes, to becoming champions of women’s rights in the community. The CHVs also showcased their work and its impact at the grassroots level.
Her Excellency interacting with the University students and Women’s Association.
Her Excellency and her husband were impressed especially meeting the University students. She exclaimed, “The students are the proof of how amazing Asha’s work has been. It’s so overwhelming to witness the developments taking place in the community and the slum residents’ lives. Thank you for having us here and giving us the opportunity to witness your inspiring lives.” Mr Tim, a teacher by profession, can also be heard saying how amazed he was with the whole experience.
Asha student Santosh from Zakhira slum community proudly displays his Award of Excellence that he has received from the Govt. of Delhi.
We wholeheartedly appreciate HE Ms Kempkers and her husband for visiting us and hope that the long-standing association between New Zealand High Commission and Asha will only grow in the coming days.
Dr Kiran and Her Excellency taking a walk through the community.
Dr Kiran, Her Excellency and her husband in one of the community members home.
