Pink E-Rickshaw Driver from Uttar Pradesh Wins Prestigious UK Royal Award

Photo : AFP

London: Arti, an 18-year-old rickshaw driver from a small village in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, had a momentous experience this week when she met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. Arti was in London to receive the Amal Clooney Women's Empowerment Award at the Prince's Trust Awards, named after the globally recognized human rights barrister.

Arti's remarkable journey to this prestigious accolade is rooted in her work with the Pink E-rickshaw initiative, a government scheme aimed at providing safe transport for women and empowering female drivers. Her inspiring efforts have made her a beacon of hope for young girls facing similar challenges in her community.

"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," Arti shared. During her first visit to London, she bought a cake and a pair of shoes for her five-year-old daughter, adding a personal touch to her extraordinary experience.

Meeting King Charles III was a highlight for Arti. "It has been an unbelievably amazing experience, meeting the King who was so nice and sent his namaste to my family back home too. He also listened carefully as I spoke about how much I love driving my e-rickshaw, which does not run on polluting diesel or petrol but one that I charge at home every night," she said, speaking in Hindi.

The Prince's Trust, founded by King Charles when he was the Prince of Wales, has now evolved into the King's Trust International. It continues to support young people across 20 countries through various programmes focusing on employment, education, and enterprise. The women's empowerment award, in particular, recognizes young women who have overcome significant obstacles and have made lasting contributions to their communities.

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"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," said Amal Clooney, the award's namesake and a prominent British activist-barrister.

For the Buckingham Palace reception, Arti made a statement by arriving in a pink rickshaw, symbolizing not just a sustainable mode of transport but also the broader movement of women's empowerment. This visually striking entrance underscored the significance of her work and the message she carries.

Arti's journey with the Pink E-rickshaw initiative began in July 2023 through Project Lehar, a collaboration between Prince's Trust International and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF). The project introduced her to the Indian government's scheme, which aims to empower women and enhance their income opportunities. Under this initiative, the Bahraich district administration provided pink e-rickshaws to women drivers with a subsidy, fostering employment opportunities for vulnerable women, especially widows and single mothers.

"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. Here's to many more Arti's – believe in yourself, and never let anything dim the light of your ambitions," said Tinni Sawhney, CEO of AKF (India), who accompanied Arti to the award ceremony and helped interpret for her.

Will Straw, CEO of Prince's Trust International, also expressed his admiration: "I am so proud of Arti on winning this year's women's empowerment award. She is breaking societal barriers and setting an example through her strength and determination. Our work in India gives young people the opportunity to build valuable life skills and find meaningful work. Through Project Lehar and our partnerships with the Aga Khan Foundation, we will continue supporting young women to achieve their ambitions."

Arti's recognition at such a prestigious international platform not only highlights her individual achievements but also underscores the transformative potential of initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting sustainable practices.

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