When Preeti joined the GEMS club in Grade 8, she wasn't selected as a Peer Group Leader (PGL). Two years later, at age 15 and recently having completed her SEE exams, the confidence and clarity in her speech would convince anyone that she's a leader in every sense. Before GEMS, Preeti lacked both confidence and technical knowledge: "I didn't even know how to switch on a laptop.”
Through GEMS' consistent digital training, she now confidently uses Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word. She can introduce herself in English and articulate complex ideas – skills she once thought were beyond her reach.
More importantly, the GEMS Club – a part of the British Council's Girls' Empowerment and Mainstreaming Sustainably (GEMS) project – nurtured her ability to express herself not only in the classroom, but with her family as well. For years, Preeti quietly dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but only after completing SEE and building confidence through GEMS did she tell her father. Though initially dismissive, he changed his mind when he heard her conviction: "I will try very hard and study. I can do it." He supports her ambition to pursue law,
Priti's motivation is very inspiring: "My mama (maternal uncle) was wrongly accused in an accident case. In our village, no one understands the law. If I learn law, it will help the whole community."
Unlike formal classrooms – where students are sometimes scolded – the GEMS club provided a friendly environment: "In class, teachers get angry. In the club, we study like friends. PGLs repeat lessons until we understand. They never get tired of our questions." This inclusive approach helped her embrace English, a subject she had previously disliked.
Preeti's influence now extends beyond the club. Her younger sister, in Grade 7, has begun attending sessions and often says: "Sister, I also want to go." Though the formal GEMS program has concluded, Preeti continues to share her learnings: "We don't need money. Teaching others increases our own knowledge."
Although she was not officially selected as a PGL, Preeti has become a peer leader in spirit and action. In a community where early marriage remains common, she is vocal about her rights. When her mother once joked about marriage, Preeti replied firmly: "Do it, and I will call the police."
Neighbours have also taken note – often expressing pride that girls are learning and showing promise for the future. For families that couldn't afford club access, Preeti's story offers both inspiration and hope.
Preeti's journey – from a hesitant student to a confident advocate and community educator – embodies the power of education, mentorship and opportunity. She now stands not just ready for her own future, but shaping a better one for many.