Indian Futures Annual Report 2023
Contents
Introduction 3 Our Theory of Change 5 Our Projects and Impact 6
Our New Volunteers and 12 Collaborators
Our Venues Our Funding
Our Goals for 2024
14 16 18
Introduction
As we start a new year, our focus continues to be the provision of quality services to our beneficiaries in India. 2022 was a successful year for us, where we saw our three projects on the ground grow and develop further to adapt to the changing needs of the communities.
However, the cost of living crisis has affected the world as a whole. This poses challenges for Indian Futures on three levels: 1) In the UK, our fundraising efforts need to increase in order to cover growing costs e.g. salaries, educational material, IT equipment, 2) in India, many children from the poorest families are having to drop out of school to be able to contribute to the families’ income, and 3) this is happening at a time when our supporters all over the world are also facing financial difficulties.
==> picture [499 x 262] intentionally omitted <==
But it is not all doom and gloom. As the cos t of living crisis hits the planet, there also seems to be an increased sense of community and willingness to help others in situations of poverty. Despite the challenges explained above, since its creation, Indian Futures has seen a consistent gradual increase in its funding.
While we cannot deny the reality of our economies, it is also true that there is more awareness about those that have been most impacted in the current financial climate. Indian Futures will continue to work with our local community to raise this awareness and strive for our ultimate goal, a world where everyone has access to quality education. Anna Amado Founder of Indian Futures
==> picture [519 x 330] intentionally omitted <==
Our Theory of Change
We envisage a world where everyone has access to quality education.
We have set out to bridge the gap between the urban and rural areas of South India, thus helping to create a fairer society with equal opportunities for everyone.
Rural schools have inadequate student to teacher ratios, insufficient teaching resources, and no IT facilities, meaning that children often fall behind in their learning and struggle when they start attending higher education.
There are also high rates of female students dropping out from higher education, as parents will often prioritise their sons’ studies over their daughters’.
We have set out to improve children’s digital skills and educational levels by creating 3 IT centres for students in the villages of Kanjanur, Thandarai Pettai and Chitiraikoodam in rural Tamil Nadu.
We support girls’ access to further education by providing a Student Sponsorship Programme for female students.
Our Projects and Impact
IT Community Centres
Young students in India are eager to learn IT but unfortunately, many of them live in rural areas where IT access is not available. Without IT proficiency, none of these students will be able to find a job in the future.
To help solve this issue, Indian Futures has created 3 IT Centres and provides IT training and mentoring to young students.
The goals of the IT Centres are to develop more varied and stimulating ways of learning, increase young people's chances to find a job in the future and help reduce the digital gap between rural and urban areas in India.
==> picture [519 x 235] intentionally omitted <==
Since the centres opened in 2019, they have provided basic IT skills to a total of 460 children from the areas of Vedanthangal, Kanjanur and Sendanadu.
Today, all our students have a higher level of IT than those not attending the centres.
We have also noticed an increase in the number of students choosing IT Computer Science as their college degree, and some of them have shown an interest in becoming IT teachers in our centres once they graduate.
Prithviraj (IT Teacher)
‘It is an undeniable fact that the future will be powered by computers. If there are no basic computer skills then it is not possible to work in most sectors. This is the real truth. I am specially thankful to Laia Foundation - Indian Futures for coming forward to impart basic computer education to school children.’
==> picture [229 x 177] intentionally omitted <==
Migna Sri (IT Student)
==> picture [213 x 153] intentionally omitted <==
‘Before I joined the IT Centre, I had seen the computer only on TV. At present, I have joined a computer class and developed basic computer skills. My school teachers appreciate my skills. This is not possible without Laia Foundation and Indian Futures. Thank you so much.’
Student Sponsorship Programme
The Programme subsidises the university fees, transport and educational material of 14 female students a year. Without the sponsorship, they simply would be unable to pay for and have access to further education.
It also provides the students with access to a Mentoring Scheme which helps them develop additional skills whilst studying. The Programme is divided into 4 modules: Tactical English Speaking, Personal Development, IT and CV Writing, and Careers Advice.
==> picture [491 x 320] intentionally omitted <==
==> picture [298 x 304] intentionally omitted <==
Aarthima S (Sponsored Student)
‘Hi, I am Aarthima. First of all, thank you for sponsoring me. I belong to a very poor family. In my house, my parents said that they could not pay for my studies. I was very sad.
The Sponsorship Program has been very helpful for my studies. I completed BA History last year and now I’m studying Archaeology.
When I started the Mentoring, I did not know how to speak English. After attending, I can speak a little. Now I practise English with my friends and relatives. I am so happy going to college. Thank you, donors, from me and my family.’
Since 2019, a total of 26 students have benefited from our Sponsorship Programme.
Out of these,
12 are still studying at college or university, some of them doing their second degree or masters. 4 are currently seeking employment, and 10 are in full-time employment.
Tailoring Project
The Tailoring Project started as a family enterprise, in response to the financial difficulties posed by the pandemic. Since 2020, Indian Futures has paid the salaries of one part-time Tailoring Manager and four tailors.
All of the women involved in the project belong to the Dalit caste, one of the lowest and most discriminated against castes in India. While women belonging to higher castes are more likely to reach further education and find employment. Dalit women are still very dependent on their husband’s income, don’t usually have paid jobs and spend most of their time doing house chores and looking after the family. Despite all the barriers, movements in support of Dalit women’s rights have always been very strong in India and particularly, in the state of Tamil Nadu.
==> picture [508 x 248] intentionally omitted <==
All our tailors have reported feeling more in control of their own lives since the project started. Their salary is not only a means to cover family expenses but has also brought a higher level of independence, the opportunity to socialise with other women and an improved sense of self-worth and confidence.
Here is what they have to say…
==> picture [142 x 158] intentionally omitted <==
Rose
‘This job I very much like. I enjoy this job and I’m very happy. Salary use for hospital bus fare and school fees. Very useful this money. Continue this work monthly giving.’
==> picture [142 x 158] intentionally omitted <==
Mumtaj ‘Hi, I’m Mumtaj, I’m explain for tailoring job. This job I like a lot, a lot, a lot. I enjoy this job and all the girls find useful. Also, house stay and work. This income for my family is very, very useful and all the girls enjoy and I also enjoy this job. Thank you.’
==> picture [142 x 157] intentionally omitted <==
Thill
‘This job very much like and enjoy. House making very useful, house stay and work. This incoming our family very useful.’
Our New Volunteers and Collaborators
==> picture [149 x 150] intentionally omitted <==
Gus
Gus helped to edit a video documentary for Indian Futures photography show for Brighton Festival 2023 and has been helping on other video projects since. ‘This wonderfully talented team are so supportive and the experience has been very positive for me’.
==> picture [149 x 149] intentionally omitted <==
Rosalie
Rosalie started volunteering for Indian Futures in 2023 when she first discovered their colourful stand at The Brunswick Festival in Brighton! Rosalie is an enthusiastic linguist, performer and singer, and she has supported events with her singing and poetry.
Emma
==> picture [149 x 149] intentionally omitted <==
Emma started volunteering at our stall and has since helped run a number of events. She is a support worker for adults with learning difficulties (and former PA, TEFL teacher and local journalist.) ‘Indian Futures inspired me to join - the transformational power of education cannot be underestimated, - I want to see changes and opportunities for my sisters in India.’
Spoken Word Artists
Alanna, one of our Trustees and also a fabulous artist, held her first spoken word fundraiser event in September 2021. Her events are ever-evolving and, as of today, count on the artistic talents of three other poetry writers, readers and musicians: Jo Merriman, Sally Moss and Roger Brophy. To them, Indian Futures owes many successful creative fundraisers.
==> picture [209 x 149] intentionally omitted <==
Poppy Jaman
Poppy, a British Bangladeshi, is the woman behind the SareeNaSorry funshops , a project focused on bringing the local community and businesses together to explore deeper conversations on identity, pride and self-limiting beliefs through the joy of draping sarees.
The funshop, now incorporated into many Indian Futures’ fundraisers, is an invitation from Poppy to join her and have fun whilst sharing the love of draping in a saree.
==> picture [149 x 150] intentionally omitted <==
Kate Adams
DanceMoves is the Bollywood dance company set up by Kate Adams. Kate, a professional dance artist and teacher with over 30 years’ experience, runs classes for children, young people and adults in Brighton.
Like Poppy, Kate recently joined an Indian Futures’ event, delivering a Bollywood dance workshop to our audience, and has been taking part in our fundraisers ever since.
==> picture [149 x 149] intentionally omitted <==
Our Venues
==> picture [197 x 198] intentionally omitted <==
Robert Lodge
Indian Futures secured a new office space in Brighton which can be used for administration, team meetings and events. Local neighbours in the community were invited to a welcoming event to get to know the Indian Futures’ team and the projects we support.
==> picture [197 x 198] intentionally omitted <==
Manor Road Gym
This year saw many fundraising events held at Manor Road Gym, including saree funshops, a fair trade sale and and artist performances. Local residents and supporters of Indian Futures have helped raise funds for the projects whilst having great fun!
==> picture [197 x 198] intentionally omitted <==
Phoenix Art Space
As part of Brighton Fringe, Indian Futures showcased artwork by French artist and photographer Isabeau de Rouffignac and Catalan photographer and director Pep Àvila, alongside The Bhopal Medical Appeal in ‘Memories of an Indian Future’.
Euroaula
Futuraula is an Indian Futures - Euroaula initiative that began in 2018/19 academic year. It's run by a Committee of students from Euroaula, University School of Tourism in Barcelona. The Committee organises fundraising events in the city in support of Indian Futures' Student Sponsorship Programme. The Committee meets regularly throughout the year to decide on and run events, particularly around Christmas, St George’s Day (Catalunya’s national day) and the academic end of year.
==> picture [237 x 236] intentionally omitted <==
Espai Mosaik
On 23rd December 2023, Indian Futures and Projecte Laia (a Catalan NGO that also works towards the development of rural South India) joined forces to hold an event at Espai Mosaik in Barcelona. Espai Mosaik is a well known venue that attracts a wide range of artists from all over the world. They hold exhibitions, workshops, conferences, etc.
Indian Futures and Projecte Laia presented the work we are both doing to help address gender inequalities in India. We also had a fantastic performance by Marina Tomàs and Nubla, two reknown Catalan singer songwriters.
==> picture [237 x 236] intentionally omitted <==
Our Funding
Funding Sources
==> picture [583 x 650] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
Gift Aid Tailoring Project
Disbursement
£689 £168
(Emergency and
Corporations
Medical Appeals)
£4,207
£5,779
Events
£1,182
Monthly
Donations
£2,679
Grants
£3,426
One Off
Donations
Student Sponsors £3,711
£817 Online
Futuraula Merchandise
Campaigns
£2,340 Sales
£285
£239
----- End of picture text -----
Funding Distribution
==> picture [582 x 661] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
Disbursement
Event Costs
(Emergencies and
2.8%
Medical Appeals) IT Community Centres
(not inc. salaries)
25.4%
5.5%
Tailoring
Project
0.8%
Student
Sponsorship
19.4%
Admin
Costs
Reserves
4%
22.2%
Salaries and
Educational Activities
19.9%
----- End of picture text -----
Our Goals for 2024
Our overall goal is to continue to fund our IT Community Centres and Sponsorship Programme.
In order to achieve our goal we have a number of challenges to overcome. For instance, our IT Centre in Sendanadu has no IT Teacher and at present, the other teachers run the centre with their own group of students. We want to find a dedicted IT Teacher, but it is hard in an area where there is a high level of illiteracy and the people who do complete higher studies move away from.
We would also like to foster a higher sense of commitment and involvement within our sponsored students so they benefit fully from the opportunities we offer.
Finally, in order to continously build on our achievements, we need to diversify our income streams. We have done very well so far in reaching out to a variety of stakeholders that have been supporting our work. We now want to take a step further and involve other members of the community, both here and in India, so the work of Indian Futures continues to expand and create impact.
Profit and Loss by Restricted & Unrestricted Funds
Indian Futures R/C For the year ended 31 December 2023
| Account | R-IT Centres |
R-LF Salaries & Educ Activities |
R-LF Sponsorship Program |
R- Tailoring |
R-VET Disbursements, Salaries & Educ Activities |
U-General | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Income | |||||||
| Corporations | 0 | 1,440 | 0 | 0 | 1,267 | 1,500 | 4,207 |
| Donations Regular-EU | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 767 | 767 |
| Donations Regular-UK | 0 | 0 | 1,000 | 0 | 0 | 1,679 | 2,679 |
| Events-Art Exhibition etc. | 0 | 0 | 439 | 482 | 0 | 262 | 1,182 |
| Futuraula | 0 | 0 | 2,340 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2,340 |
| Gift Aid-Just Giving | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 689 | 689 |
| Grants | 2,926 | 0 | 500 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3,426 |
| Merchandise Sales | 0 | 0 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 229 | 239 |
| One off Donations | 0 | 833 | 395 | 0 | 303 | 2,153 | 3,684 |
| One off Donations-EU & ROW | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 27 | 27 |
| Online Campaigns | 0 | 0 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 265 | 285 |
| Sponsors | 0 | 0 | 817 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 817 |
| Tailoring Project | 0 | 0 | 0 | 168 | 0 | 0 | 168 |
| VET-Disbursement Received | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5,779 | 0 | 5,779 |
| Total Income | 2,926 | 2,273 | 5,521 | 650 | 7,349 | 7,570 | 26,288 |
| Cost of Projects | |||||||
| Event Costs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 742 | 742 |
| LF-IT Community Centres | 1,431 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,431 |
| LF-Salaries & Educational Activities | 1,495 | 2,272 | 460 | 226 | 729 | 0 | 5,182 |
| LF-Student Sponsorship | 0 | 0 | 5,060 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5,060 |
| LF-Tailoring Project Costs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 208 | 0 | 0 | 208 |
| VET-Disbursement sent, Salaries & Educational Activities | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6,620 | 0 | 6,620 |
| Total Cost of Projects | 2,926 | 2,272 | 5,520 | 434 | 7,349 | 742 | 19,244 |
| Gross Profit/(Loss) | (0) | 0 | 0 | 216 | (0) | 6,828 | 7,044 |
| Administrative Costs | |||||||
| Total Administrative Costs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,038 | 1,038 |
| Net Profit/(Loss) | (0) | 0 | 0 | 216 | (0) | 5,790 | 6,006 |
| Reserves | |||||||
| C/fwd Unused funds | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5,790 | 5,790 |
| Total Reserves | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5,790 | 5,790 |
| Net Profit/(Loss) after Reserves | (0) | 0 | 0 | 216 | (0) | 0 | 216 |
Balance Sheet Indian Futures R/C As at 31 December 2023
| Account | 31 Dec 2023 |
|---|---|
| Assets | |
| Bank | |
| Co-Op Business Bank Account | 9,158 |
| Total Bank | 9,158 |
| Total Assets | 9,158 |
| Liabilities | |
| Current Liabilities | |
| Prepaid-Funds Received but not yet spent | 5,790 |
| Total Current Liabilities | 5,790 |
| Non-current Liabilities | |
| Anna-Trustee Account | 1,500 |
| Total Non-current Liabilities | 1,500 |
| Total Liabilities | 7,290 |
| Net Assets | 1,868 |
| Equity | Equity |
|---|---|
| Current Year Earnings 216 |
==> picture [188 x 53] intentionally omitted <==
Independent examiner's report on the accounts
Section A Independent Examiner’s Report
Report to the trustees
Charity Name INDIAN FUTURES On accounts for the year ended 31[ST] DECEMBER 2023 Charity no (if any) 1173474 Set out on pages 2
Set out on pages
(remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets)
Responsibilities and basis of report
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended DD / MM / YYYY .
As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Sushma Clark 25/07/2024 Sushma Clark CIMA/FCMA 10 Sudeley Place, Brighton, BN2 1HF IER
Signed: Date: Name: Relevant professional qualification(s) or body (if any): Address: 1 Oct 2018
Oct 2018
Section B Disclosure
Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).
Give here brief details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .
N/A
2
Oct 2018
IER