Age 17

Ummekulsum’s family first lived in a village but migrated to the Mumbai area for better living conditions, and now live in Bhiwandi. Ummekulsum’s father works in a power loom factory, earning $120 monthly. Her mother works stringing pearls and earns less than $2 a day. They have rented a home for the past 17 years and work hard to make ends meet.

Ummekulsum struggled with her eyesight until receiving treatment, and now it is much better. She attended school until the completion of 8th grade, and then she stayed at home due to family situations. Currently attending school at Udaan, Ummekulsum loves to learn and takes part in group activities and games. She hopes to one day become a teacher.