For 22 years, Rubi Paul has been a dedicated teacher at Sparsha, serving as a beacon of hope in a community that faces constant threats from poverty and annual demolitions by the BMC. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Rubi remains unwavering in her belief that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming lives.
“Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence”
Philip Reyes
Earning Trust Beyond the Classroom
From the moment she entered the community, Rubi understood that she had to build trust to make a meaningful impact. Many families were struggling to meet their basic needs, and education was often deprioritised as children were pulled out of school to help with survival. Recognizing this reality, Rubi went beyond her role as an educator by actively addressing the community’s immediate needs. She distributed food, clothing, and other essentials, demonstrating her genuine investment in the well-being of the families she served.
Ruby Paul - The Teacher
Turning Compassion into Community Confidence
This hands-on approach quickly earned her the respect and admiration of the community. Rubi became more than just a teacher; she emerged as a compassionate advocate who was willing to go above and beyond for their survival. Once she gained their confidence, Rubi shifted her focus to education. She was determined to change perceptions about schooling, promoting it as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Making Education a Shared Mission
To foster a culture of learning, Rubi organised community meetings, engaging families in discussions about the long-term benefits of education. She developed after-school programs that provided a safe space for students to study and stay engaged, reinforcing the importance of education in their lives.
Learning That Reflects Real Life
One of Rubi’s most remarkable achievements has been the creation of a culturally relevant curriculum that resonates with the unique experiences and struggles of the community. By tailoring the curriculum to reflect their realities, she bridged the gap between academic learning and everyday life. This innovation not only attracted back students who had previously dropped out but also kept them motivated to succeed. Rubi’s interactive and experiential teaching methods further engaged students, making learning enjoyable and meaningful.
