Age 12

Mantasha lives in Bhiwandi, India, with her family of 8. She completed 4th grade but later discontinued her education due to her family situation. Mantasha’s father works as a painter and earns around $6 a day, depending on the availability of jobs. Mantasha’s mother does pearl beading in her house. Mantasha’s mother has had problems in both her eyes for over a year and finds it challenging to do pearl beading. Mantasha’s mother earns around $13 or less monthly, depending on her health.

Due to irregular income, Mantasha’s family finds it difficult to run their daily expenses and treat her mother. Even with these challenging circumstances, Mantasha always has a smile on her face. She is a strong young girl who aspires to become a teacher.