When Mindsets Changed, Confidence Grew — Transformation from School to Community
Udaipur: With the belief that “the best interest of every child should be at the center of collective efforts,” a high-level team from UNICEF India visited Badgaon block in Udaipur district. The team toured Government Senior Secondary School in Kaloda and the Pushkar Mahadev Village Organization in Karelo Ka Guda to assess the impact of the Self-Esteem and Body Confidence (Pehchaan) program.
The visit aimed to understand behavioral changes in the community, evaluate the program’s impact, and align future strategies with the vision of Viksit Rajasthan@2047. The delegation included Dennis Larsen, Chief of Program (Social Behavior Change), UNICEF India Country Office, New Delhi; Dr. K.L. Rao, Chief Field Officer, UNICEF Rajasthan Field Office Jaipur; SBC Specialist Manjari Pant; Gender Specialist Tom; Program Associate Mary Thomas; Program Director (Aravali) Dr. Varun Sharma; and State Consultant Zamir Anwar, along with other team members.
At Kaloda School, the team was welcomed by Principal Vidya Shrimali, who explained the school’s socio-economic background and the positive changes brought about by the program. PTM in-charge Kirti Chaudhary presented a “gallery walk” showcasing the journey of Social Behavior Change (SBC)-based PTMs. This included students’ letters, their dreams, experiences related to body shaming, and expressions of self-acceptance.
During interactions, it was observed that children have become more confident, express themselves openly, and treat each other with respect. Students shared that they have completely stopped using body-shaming nicknames and no longer judge peers based on appearance, height, or physical features. Instead, they now appreciate each other’s strengths and abilities. They are also becoming aware of gender stereotypes and moving toward equality.
Discussions with parents highlighted one of the most impactful outcomes of the program. Parents shared that they now understand that a child’s true identity lies in their qualities, behavior, and abilities—not in physical appearance. They admitted that earlier, they unknowingly compared children or used remarks based on looks, but have now consciously changed such behavior.
Parents reported that they now spend more time with their children, listen to them attentively, understand their emotions, and encourage their aspirations. They have stopped making comparisons and instead focus on nurturing each child’s uniqueness. They also emphasized that they are no longer discriminating between sons and daughters and are making conscious efforts to provide equal opportunities. As a result, communication, trust, and a positive environment within families have significantly improved.
The team also visited the Pushkar Mahadev Village Organization under the Rajasthan Rural Livelihoods Development Council in Badgaon block to observe the program’s community-level impact. Implemented with UNICEF’s support through the Aravali organization, the initiative aims to promote self-esteem, confidence, and positive parenting among adolescents.
During the meeting, District Manager (DMIB) Lalit Jingar, Block Program Manager Monica Mishra, and CLF Manager Sapna Kumawat, along with 17 women members of the village organization, were present.
Sapna Kumawat explained the program’s working and noted that it is bringing positive direction to women’s lives. Lalit Jingar and Monica Mishra added that topics like self-esteem, gender equality, and positive parenting are now regularly discussed in SHG and village organization meetings, leading to visible behavioral changes in the community.
VOA member Khumani Gameti shared that she now communicates regularly with her children, understands their emotions, and encourages them. She observed positive changes in her family, with her daughter now confidently expressing herself.
Other women also shared that they have become more confident and outspoken. They actively participate in meetings, express their views, and raise their voices when needed. They are increasingly aware of gender discrimination and stereotypes, treat sons and daughters equally, and have stopped comparing children.
Dr. Varun Sharma stated that this initiative is not just a program but a process of social transformation that is strengthening trust, communication, and understanding between children and parents.
The UNICEF team appreciated the efforts being made and praised the effective work carried out through NRLM and SRLM (Rajeevika). They especially commended the growing confidence, active participation, and leadership of women, noting that they are no longer just participants but strong agents of change.
“The change is no longer limited to schools—it is clearly visible in the thinking, behavior, and relationships across the entire community.”
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