2nd November 2007

Today we all couldn't wait to get back to Kalkaji, but at the same time we were dreading the goodbyes that we knew were inevitable. When we arrived the girls were immediately rushed upstairs to be dressed into sarees by the ladies- far better than we can ever do them! They did it with such care and it was such a privilege on our last day.

We all waited by the gate to the Resource Centre as Ruth announced the inauguration of our artwork, along with Christine and of course Dr Kiran Martin. Ruth relayed what an honour it was for us to have been made so welcome at Kalkaji, and expressed her admiration for the continuing efforts of both the children and the staff of the centre.

We took our seats along the courtyard as the children and adults sat on mats on the ground, and were treated to dancing from both children and adults which was amazing. The general secretary of the Bal Mandal children's group told us of how ASHA has empowered every person in Kalkaji to help their community and how it has changed their lives.

The team serenaded the centre with "I say a little prayer for you" and Reach by S Club 7, followed by a general rave-like dance to Bollywood for everyone in such a small space- it was boiling! Hannah Crawford relayed all our messages for the people of Kalkaji in a brilliant speech that had everyone in tears by the end - we really have made friends forever here. She thanked everyone for their kindness and generosity, especially Dr Kiran for making this trip possible, and the children and staff for making it unforgettable.

Both Christine and Dr Kiran made emotional speeches, Christine saying returning to Kalkaji felt like returning home and inspiring the children to keep going with their efforts to make a difference to their own lives and those of their community. Dr Kiran expressed her thanks to the principal, MCB and Northern Ireland for their continued support. More photographs, hugs and tears ensued as we gave to all the Kalkaji staff- including Soni, Jeyabai, Gayatri and Laxmi as a sign of all our gratitude.

Taking off our sarees and leaving was the hardest thing any of us have had to do, heartbreaking but completely worth it for our incredible experiences, but we are all determined to return and keep in touch with all the amazing people we have met here. We are determined to spread our support for ASHA and tell of our experiences.

Angharad

Some thoughts from the team: "To be honest I can't think of words to describe this experience. However I have met the most inspiring people here and I've learnt what really matters in life; I will be back to help further my equals out here who are not as privileged as I." - Jenny C "How was the India trip?. ...How wasn't the India trip? We have managed to experience more emotions than I thought possible all in an amazing country full of the friendliest people. We have met lifelong friends and I am sure we will all be back soon it has been fantastic!" - Susi L "Incredible, amazing, overwhelming... simple words cannot describe the experience I have had. For me, I have experienced the hardest times of my life but also some of the BEST! Everyone is so friendly, kind and generous it's as if we had been friends all our lives! I thank all the teachers and friends and indeed everyone who have supported me for the experience of a lifetime!" - Han Lu "Today's highlight for me was seeing 50-60 year old women shaking their stuff at our inauguration ceremony today. There has been so much happiness here, it's unbelievable. Can I just go for a bit of the cheese bazaar (you guys understand!) and say that I absolutely love everyone on the trip and I would never have thought that such a random bunch would get on so well. Thank you to everyone for all your prayers and support. Now we just have to deal with coming home..." - Sarah "There are truly no words that could rightly sum up the experience. Everyone here were so welcoming and I met some of the most inspiration people ever. It was great to see ASHA's amazing work in action at long last and to see how ASHA really help and empower the residents of the Delhi Slum communities." - Emily C