The ANU Gender Institute presents Dr Kiran Martin, Founder and Director of Asha (“hope” in Hindi). Asha is a Delhi-based NGO that works in partnership with women in slum communities to improve living conditions and access healthcare, education and financial services. A blueprint for India’s national programs, Asha transforms lives in Delhi’s slums by turning women into leaders. Asha’s model has been acclaimed by the UN and Dr Martin has received the Padma Shri, India’s highest civilian award.

Web: www.asha-india.org.

Please register for this event online.

Asha is a Delhi-based NGO that works in partnership with women in slum communities to improve living conditions and access healthcare, education and financial services. Asha has touched around 500,000 lives in Delhi across 55 slums – regardless of their background, caste or religious beliefs.

Asha has a strong gender dimension, with women’s groups at the center of the model to access healthcare, education and financial services. Asha aims to influence the lives of its international audience by sharing local practice and vision and facilitating partnerships to change individuals globally.

Asha’s Australian connections extend for 25 years. In 2012 Australian Friends of Asha was established, with Sir Alex Chernov, Governor of Victoria as its patron. Former Governor General Dame Quentin Bryce, PM Julia Gillard, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and Ambassador for Women and Girls Natasha Stott Despoja have all visited Asha’s slums. Dr Martin will meet the Governor General during her visit to Australia.

Web: www.australianfriendsofashaslums.org.au.