- By Swati Kumar
- Thu, 21 May 2026 01:53 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Naini’s Inspiring Journey: Inspiration to millions, Naina, a resident of the Risiya area, has brought pride to her hometown by earning recognition on an international platform. Once engaged in daily wage labour to support her family, Naina continued her studies through many financial hardships and joined the Aga Khan Foundation's "Project Lehar” in 2021. Her achievements recently received a major boost when she was honoured by King Charles in London, marking a proud moment for her village and the state. Against all odds, today she stands tall as a beacon of inspiration to millions of young girls across the country.
Who Is Naina from UP?
Naina, a resident of Patel Nagar village in the Risia block, comes from a financially challenged background. Her father, Vijay Bahadur, is a mason, and her mother, Sona Devi, is a homemaker. To support her family financially, she tutored children in the village along with her studies. Naina's quest for education allowed her to continue her studies through the 10th grade while working as a laborer.
Journey from Struggles to International Recognition
Naina’s zeal for education led her to join the Aga Khan Foundation's Project Lehar in 2021. Its objective was to empower young women from marginalized communities to become self-reliant. She underwent six months of training while pursuing her studies and passed intermediate and graduate degrees with flying colors.
Under the guidance of the organization's coordinator, Seema Shukla, she launched a campaign to empower young women, from 16 years old to 29 years old, to become self-reliant. To support girls' education and women's empowerment, she formed a team of 12 young women. Furthermore, she also launched an awareness campaign to prevent child marriage.
Her work and dedication eventually gained recognition outside India, helping her establish an identity on a global platform. Her story highlights how determination can overcome difficult circumstances.
King Charles III Honours Naina in London
Naina’s hard work earned her the honor of meeting Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the King's Trust ceremony held on May 11 at the Royal Albert Hall of Buckingham Palace. The recognition acknowledged her inspiring work and achievements despite coming from a financially challenged background.
She dedicated her award to all the girls who strive to fulfill their dreams despite difficult circumstances. Upon arriving in Bahraich, Naina was honored and encouraged by DM Akshay Tripathi and CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta.
Celebrities like Amal Clooney, George Clooney, Charlotte Tillery, Rita Ora, and Sir Rod Stewart were also present at the ceremony.
An Inspiration for Young People
Naina’s story is now being seen as an example of perseverance and hope. Her rise from daily wage labour to receiving recognition from a global figure sends a strong message that hard work and determination can help overcome even the toughest circumstances. Residents of Bahraich have expressed pride in her achievement, calling it a moment of honour for the region.