Childrens Charity, India
Dhanraj grew up in a small rural village in Karnataka, where opportunity was scarce and dreams rarely stretched beyond the horizon. As a little boy, he joined the OSCAR programme simply because he loved football but what he found was something far bigger.
So, when Dhanraj was invited to be part of the OSCAR UK Tour 2023, he could hardly believe it. A boy who had never dared to dream of travelling was suddenly flying across the world. On the tour, Dhanraj experienced things he once thought impossible, interacting with pupils from OSCAR’S host schools, sightseeing in London, meeting OSCAR’s Royal Patron, HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh and even the British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak MP, who welcomed the team to a reception at 10 Downing Street and elite coaching from Man City FC. These moments were unforgettable. But more importantly, they showed Dhanraj what he could become.
Dhanraj is one of the many young people supported through OSCAR’s Child Sponsorship Scheme. Thanks to the generosity of his sponsors, he received regular football sessions, life-skills education and a school uniform not just for himself, but for other children in his community. This consistent support gave him confidence, discipline, a sense of belonging and a passion for keeping fit and working out in the gym!
Today, Dhanraj is no longer just a participant. He is an active Young Leader, inspiring hundreds of children from backgrounds just like his. He stands as living proof of what happens when a child is given sustained support, opportunity and someone who believes in them.
The photos you see capture more than a journey across continents, they tell the story of a young boy whose life was changed and who is now changing the lives of others.
By continuing to support the child sponsorship programme, you are helping create more Dhanrajs, children who don’t just escape their circumstances, but go on to uplift entire communities.
Thank you to our OSCAR host schools for your continued partnership in changing lives through opportunity and sport. Bradfield College, Ashfold School, Beaudesert Park School, Malvern College, Marlborough College and Eton College.
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