Monalisa Sahoo, a 19-year-old resident of Dhirkuti slum in Bhubaneswar, had aspirations of pursuing higher education after passing her matriculation exams in 2021. However, her plans were put on hold due to her father’s declining health, as he was the family’s sole provider. Despite this setback, an opportunity arose for Monalisa to contribute to her community. She eagerly enrolled in a three-month training program for General Duty Assistance (GDA), overcoming initial struggles with English instructions through determination and even acquiring basic computer skills during the training.

Initially reserved, Monalisa found her confidence when she was introduced as a Paramedic at a community gathering, organised by the Urban Health Project team of CYSD. This moment of self-discovery allowed her to tap into her inner strength and value. She began actively engaging with her community, visiting homes to encourage health monitoring and guide individuals to seek medical assistance when necessary. Her efforts not only boosted her own confidence but also fostered a culture of health consciousness within the community.

Motivating community members to monitor their health, utilise the nearby community health centre (CHC) for medical support, and adhere to medication routines presented challenges. However, Monalisa now takes pride in witnessing families willingly participate in immunisation drives and regular health check-ups. They have become advocates themselves, spreading awareness to their neighbours and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

During her interactions with adolescent girls, Monalisa addressed topics like anaemia, early marriage, and menstrual hygiene. Many girls were initially shy and uninformed about menstruation, prompting Monalisa to provide education and support. Through her efforts, girls gained confidence and adopted healthier practices, such as proper nutrition and iron supplementation.

A pivotal moment for Monalisa occurred during a routine check-up with a pregnant woman and her elderly mother-in-law. Sensing the older woman’s discomfort, Monalisa convinced her to check her blood pressure, revealing a concerning reading. Urging her to seek medical attention, the woman later returned healthy, grateful for Monalisa’s intervention. This experience underscored the importance of timely healthcare and empowered Monalisa to continue her community service despite personal loss.

Monalisa’s resilience and dedication amidst adversity are inspiring. Despite facing the loss of her father, she remains committed to her community, even considering pursuing further education. Her journey exemplifies the transformative impact of community service on personal growth and healing.

Health Paramedics like Monalisa introduced through a Community-Led Participatory Learning Approach (CLPLA) have revolutionised community health practices. Their stories, along with those of other dedicated individuals, highlight the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. From shattered dreams to renewed aspirations, these narratives reflect resilience, compassion, and a commitment to collective well-being.

As these local Health Champions continue to nurture both community health and their personal aspirations, their impact extends far beyond Dhirkuti and Sikharachandi slums. Their journey stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in fostering lasting positive change and collective empowerment.