“I Am Designed to Win & No One Can Stop Me”

One of the most significant outreach initiatives of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary – Social Service Society (FMM SSS) St. Anthony’s Home, Mumbai is the annual Women’s Day celebration for the underprivileged communities we serve. This year’s event was held on 7th March 2026 at St. Anthony’s Home, with the participation of nearly 350 beneficiaries from various outreach projects.

Participants included members from St. Bhakita Project (Commercial Sex Workers), CHOICE (HIV infected persons), Pravasi Kiran (migrant persons and Reya Road), Rangeela (LGBTQ community), Project Vidya (tuition children) and Health Out reach Medicine Group Members. The theme for the celebration, “I Am Designed to Win & No One Can Stop Me,” emphasized resilience, self-belief, and the strength to overcome life’s challenges.

The Guest of Honour, Mr. Amin Patel, MLA of the Mumbadevi Constituency, and Guest Speaker, renowned motivational speaker Mr. Gaston D’Souza, graced the occasion. The programme was also attended by Sr. Elizabeth Mathai, FMM, Superior of St. Anthony’s Home; Sr. Mary Kurian, FMM, Superior of Villa Theresa, Peddar Road; along with other FMM sisters from both the houses.

The celebration began with a graceful diya prayer dance performed by the children of St. Anthony’s Home, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere., Sr. Sherly, Coordinator of FMM SSS, welcomed the guests who were presented with potted plants as a token of appreciation and she also and briefly highlighted the various social initiatives carried out by the organization. Mrs. Asha the anchor for the programme introduced the guests and invited Mr Amin Patel to Share his thoughts.

In his address, Mr. Amin Patel commended the FMM SSS St. Anthony’s Home Mumbai specially Sr. Sherly for her dedicated service to the marginalized communities. Reflecting on the theme, he encouraged the audience to recognize their inner strength and ability to rise above difficult circumstances. Sr. Sherly also cited the inspiring example of Mrs. Nirmala Tai, a widow who has been serving at the FMM SSS center for over five years with dedication. Despite personal hardships, including caring for her paralyzed husband and raising her children single-handedly, she continues to work diligently in preparing ration parcels for beneficiaries. In recognition of her commitment, she was honoured with a special gift presented by Mr. Amin Patel.

The motivational session by Mr. Gaston D’Souza brought great enthusiasm to the gathering. Through simple interactive games and engaging activities, he encouraged participation and filled the hall with laughter. He spoke about the strength and dignity of women, highlighting their role as caregivers, homemakers, and often breadwinners. His inspiring message emphasized that determination and self-belief can help overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

The programme also featured a moving poem titled “A Woman – Her Grit to Succeed,” recited by Pream Raj, a member of the transgender community. Pream Raj, a trans man, also composed the poem himself. Another touching moment came when Mrs. Ujwala Rawat, an HIV-positive participant who travelled nearly three hours from Virar, shared her inspiring story of resilience. While caring for her three daughters and her paralyzed husband, she spoke about the strength and determination that keep her moving forward. Her courage and positive spirit deeply moved the audience.

At the conclusion of the programme, the guests were presented with beautiful hand‑painted souvenirs created by Sr. Rita Daniel FMM. The participants were then provided with snacks and dry ration supplies.

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Sherly, Sr. Elizabeth, Sr. Mary Kurien, Sr. Rita, all volunteers, sponsors, and the support team whose efforts made the celebration possible.

The Women’s Day Celebration 2026 was truly a meaningful and memorable occasion, leaving participants inspired with the powerful message that every individual has the strength and potential to rise above challenges and succeed in life.

Sherly Joseph FMM,

Coordinator FMM SSS St. Anthony’s Home, Mumbai.