It has been six years since I began my journey with the Child Rights Trust (CRT), and looking back, I can say with all my heart that this has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life.

I still vividly remember my first day. Meeting Dr. Vasudeva Sharma Sir for the first time made me quite nervous, as CRT was my very first job. At that time, I had no prior work experience, no understanding of office procedures, and no knowledge of child rights. He asked me a few questions, and I can’t even recall how I managed to respond that day.

On that same day, I had the memorable opportunity to visit and meet Dr. Padmini maʼam at her home. I still remember Padmini Ma’am once asking with a smile, ‘This is a young girl; how will she manage work at CRT? She’s not yet very experienced’, to which Vasu Sir replied, ‘Yes, let’s give her an opportunity and a few days to learn. We need an assistant for Ms. Uma Bai (Accountant), and we have hired her. Let’s observe her work and see how she progresses, and then we will decide if she should continue or not.’

The early days: From home comfort to professional growth:

During my childhood, I grew up within the comfort of my home and family. My hobbies included painting, drawing, creating decorative art pieces, and participating in temple functions. I spent most of my time with my beloved grandmother, whose presence made my childhood even more special. However, I had very little knowledge or understanding of the world outside. Everything beyond my home felt new and unfamiliar, and I often found it difficult to understand and adjust to different situations.

Those early days at CRT were quite challenging for me. Everything was new, and I was unsure whether I would be able to continue working. I faced many difficulties as I tried to understand how things functioned from handling files and preparing bills and vouchers to supporting programme activities.

My early time at CRT was like a school to me. I recall not even knowing what bills and vouchers were, and I had to face difficulties just trying to understand the work process. In the starting days, I was so scared that I cried many times because I did not understand what they were saying or how to do the work. It took me so many days to understand the basics.

During those days, Vasu Sir and Ms. Uma Bai ma’am helped, guided, and taught me, and I learned every subject here day by day. Whenever I was working on accounts or administration, preparing vouchers, or checking any documents or bills, Sir would often say, ‘the work you do for the organization is not just work, it represents trust. So your work must be accurate and honest.”

He also often told me that “an accountant and the project or organization head are not friends, but we are not enemies either, it depends on trust and a shared responsibility towards the organization’s vision and mission.”

Mentorship, Education, and Life Lessons

Every day working with Vasu Sir has been a great learning experience. He never just gives instructions; he also explains the who, what, when, where, and why behind everything.

Under his constant guidance and mentorship, I learned not only the administrative and accounting processes at CRT but also the deeper purpose behind our work: protecting the rights and dignity of every child. His patience, encouragement, and trust motivated me to improve myself daily. 

With the support of both Vasu Sir and Dr. Padmini Ma’am, I also continued my higher education and successfully completed my B.Com and M.Com degrees. Their continuous encouragement gave me the confidence to balance work and studies and to keep learning without giving up. I am deeply thankful to Vasu Sir, Dr. Padmini Mam, and the entire CRT team for their unwavering support in helping me achieve this milestone.

Vasu Sir always says that the work we do should not be driven by the desire for praise or admiration from others. Instead, it should reflect our sense of responsibility, perseverance, and honesty. The sincerity in our efforts will naturally show our passion and commitment to learning and doing our work well.

Dr. Vasudeva Sharma Sir: A Visionary Leader for Child Rights:

Dr. Vasudeva Sharma Sir’s contribution to the field of children is immense. During my years at CRT, I have known him as a remarkable leader and visionary, completely dedicated to the cause of children. His passion for justice and equality has inspired many, including me, to work towards a society where every child lives with dignity and joy.

Whatever task Vasu Sir takes up, he approaches it with complete focus, discipline, and clarity. He pays close attention even to the smallest details whether it is a letter to be written on child rights, a report to be submitted to the government, or a simple administrative process. 

Along with Padmini Ma’am and Anslem Rosario Sir, I have found not just professional growth, but also a deeper sense of purpose and a continuing learning journey about the vision and mission of CRT.

Wishing you a very happy 60th birthday! We celebrate this memorable occasion with joy. May your life continue to be filled with good health, happiness and lasting success!

Sowmyashree, Child Rights Trust (CRT), Accounts and Administration