In a society where many girls are still denied the right to step outside their homes or dream of a future beyond marriage, Manisha Ma’am’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Manisha Roy hails from a small village Sonpatahi, Madhubani district in Bihar.

After passing her 10th examinations, Manisha found herself at home, like many other young women in her community. Opportunities were scarce, and expectations from girls were often limited to household responsibilities. But destiny had other plans. Through friends, she came to know about GDF’s Teachers Training program and although she was a bit apprehensive in the beginning, she chose to give it a try.
What began as a small step soon became the turning point of her life. With training and guidance from GDF, Manisha started teaching three students under the thatched roof of a mud house.Situations were challenging. In her community, parents still hesitated to educate their daughters, and many questioned her decision to step out and teach. But Manisha’s determination was stronger than the doubts surrounding her.

Slowly, her commitment began to win hearts. The small room with three children grew into a vibrant centre with over 50 students. Today, her centre is not just a place of learning — it is a community of trust and hope, and the students are eager to learn more and more everyday. While the average attendance in Bihar is 20%, the attendance in Sonpatahi centre is 98%.

Behind this transformation lies the quiet strength of a young woman who refused to be bound by societal expectations. Her parents played a crucial role in this journey too. In a family where no one owned a mobile phone, they bought one just for her — so she could stay connected, teach better, and chase her dreams of becoming a teacher.

Manisha’s story is a reminder that when women are given the chance to rise, they uplift entire communities with them. She hopes to continue educating children for as long as she can, breaking barriers and proving that a girl’s education is not just her right, but a light that can brighten countless lives.
Gyan Deepak Foundation is acting as a catalyst to empower women at the grass root level and is giving wings to fly to many Manisha’s.