22-year-old Khushi Pandey from Lucknow has a unique nickname. People call her the ‘Light Girl’. She giggles as she tells us the story behind this.
The viral video of her standing with a placard on the key intersections of Lucknow roads asking people on cycles to put on a red flashlight caught the attention of the netizens. Khushi started her #ProjectUjaala in January this year and has fixed lights on over 1550 bicycles. She lost her grandfather to a road accident in 2020 when a speeding car hit his cycle on a foggy night. Since then she has always wanted to raise awareness about road safety measures.
But that’s not all. Khushi has been working in the social space for around 6 years now. She is educating the underprivileged, feeding the hungry, destigmatizing period and so much more. This BBA LLB student is now a social impact influencer. In a heart-to-heart with Donatekart, Khushi talks about what keeps her going at this young age and what are her plans for the future.
What inspired you to start social work so early on?
My struggles! Till 6th standard, an NGO supported my education and that was when I saw how kindness can make a difference. I decided to give back to society, even if it meant educating a single child in need. That’s how I started #Project MastiKiPaathshala where we taught underprivileged children in an open school.
The three causes closest to your heart?
Definitely, road safety. The rate of road traffic accidents is only increasing and I want to do everything to change that. Next, I want to continue educating kids who can’t afford to go to school. And finally, I want to work for women and young girls, for their health and hygiene because there are still so many places in India where they don’t have access to basic amenities.
What is the work of a social media influencer?
I feel the best thing an influencer can do is spread more awareness. With so many people following them, they can be the source of the right kind of information and encourage them to give back to those in need.
Do negative comments on social media upset you?
Well, on some days, they make me sad when people think that I am doing all of this just for likes. But I am a very positive person, I take these criticisms in my stride and continue my work. It’s difficult for a woman influencer on social media because of the amount of hate we end up receiving but I can’t deny that I have also been showered with love and appreciation.
What are your favourite places in Lucknow?
The government hospitals where we conduct our feeding drives on weekends! I am a big foodie, I like feeding people. Sometimes, I cook myself and take the food to the nearby slums. Then we share the food – those are some of my fondest memories of Lucknow.
What would you like to tell India’s youth about social work?
Don’t hesitate to give back to the community, the feeling of happiness is incomparable! Even if you spend 30 minutes of your time teaching the poor or feeding those who are starving, it does make a difference. Believe in yourself – that’s the start of any big change.
Stories like Khushi’s are always inspiring. If you liked reading this head over to your blog section and our Instagram page for more such heartfelt stories. If there are others you know who’re doing such commendable jobs, let us know as well!
