My journey began in Mumbai, a city that pulsates with an energy like no other. Homes are so compact that they fit together like puzzle pieces and the streets are alive with a symphony of car horns, road vendors and laughter. My days were spent between the learning centres in the community, the OSCAR office and the football pitches. Although the days were tiring and the temperature almost unbearable, the children’s boundless enthusiasm and infectious smiles made every moment worthwhile.
I was struck by the stark contrasts in Mumbai between the towering (literally) affluence and the poignant poverty coexisting side by side. Initially, it was overwhelming and made me acutely aware of my own privileged upbringing. I felt a sense of guilt as if my comfortable life was somehow unjust in the face of such hardship. As time passed, I realised that despite having so little these children exuded a happiness that was pure and untainted by materialism. They taught me that joy can be found in the simplest things, a game of football or a new song learned.
