18-year-old pink rickshaw driver receives women’s empowerment award in London
The honour was granted to her for her important role in the Pink E-Rickshaw initiative, which aims to provide safe transportation for women.
In an inspiring turn of events, Arti, an 18-year-old e-rickshaw driver from a village in Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh, has captured international attention by receiving the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award in London.
The honour was granted to her for her important role in the Pink E-Rickshaw initiative, which aims to provide safe transportation for women. Her achievements were celebrated at the Prince’s Trust Awards, where she had the chance to meet King Charles III at Buckingham Palace.
Arti Honored with Women’s Empowerment Award for Pink E-Rickshaw Initiative
This initiative, which she joined through Project Lehar in alliance with Prince’s Trust International and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), has not only empowered Arti but also helped many women in her community by improving their mobility and making income opportunities.
Reflecting on her journey, Arti stated to the Press Trust of India (PTI), “I take pride in being able to inspire other girls who face similar challenges. This newfound independence has allowed me to see the world in a different light. Now, I am able to fulfill not only my dreams but also those of my daughter.” Her words resonate with the broader impact she has made through her work.
The Pink E-Rickshaw initiative has provided Arti with a means of livelihood and most importantly improved safety for women in her community. Her dedication to this cause has made her a guide of hope and a role model in a male-dominated field. “This year’s winner, Arti, is an inspirational example of someone whose trailblazing work in a typically male arena makes women in her community safer. Arti is determined to create a world where her daughter will not face the obstacles that she has faced, and she is already making a difference through her example,” told Amal Clooney, the renowned human rights lawyer after whom the award is named.
Meeting King Charles
Meeting King Charles III was a remarkable experience for Arti, who described it as “unbelievably amazing.” She shared how the King listened intently to her stories about driving her e-rickshaw, which she charges at home every night, emphasizing its eco-friendly benefits. “He was so nice and sent his namaste to my family back home too,” Arti recounted, speaking in Hindi. The Prince’s Trust International, established by King Charles during his time as Prince of Wales and now transitioning to the King’s Trust International, has been pivotal in supporting young people across 20 countries with programs focused on employment, education, and enterprise. The award ceremony underscored the organization’s enthusiasm for empowering young women globally who have overcome significant challenges and made lasting impacts in their communities.
Tinni Sawhney, CEO of AKF (India), who joined Arti at the award ceremony, praised her determination and resilience. “Arti truly embodies the courage, perseverance, and determination to succeed against all odds, emerging as a role model for women in her village. We are immensely grateful for our partnership with the Prince’s Trust International that has enabled us to support young women to realize their dreams and aspirations,” Sawhney stated. Will Straw, CEO of the Prince’s Trust International, expressed his confidence in Arti’s achievements. “I am so proud of Arti for winning this year’s women’s empowerment award. She is breaking societal barriers and setting an example through her strength and determination,” Straw remarked. He pointed out the ongoing efforts in India to help young people develop valuable life skills and find meaningful employment, emphasizing the significance of initiatives like Project Lehar.
Arti’s journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to Buckingham Palace symbolizes the power of empowerment initiatives and the significant impact one individual can have on their community. Her story is a testament to the potential within every young woman to overcome challenges and drive social change. As she continues to inspire others, Arti’s success underscores the importance of supporting and investing in women’s empowerment globally.
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