My time spent visiting KMWSC – Coco Gracie

My time spent visiting KMWSC – Coco Gracie

December 5, 2025

My time spent visiting the various projects managed by the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) was undoubtedly one of the most enlightening and impactful experiences I have had in my life.

As a Loreto alum, (Loreto Kirribilli, 2023), it was beautiful to witness to the charitable and empathetic ethos of Mary Ward manifested so extraordinarily in the work of the KMWSC. Every project we visited, no matter how big or small it was, was led by passionate and innovative staff who are sincerely dedicated to bettering the lives of the project’s recipients.

I was deeply moved when speaking with the beneficiaries of projects, that they all unanimously expressed gratitude to the KMWSC for transforming their lives, and particularly their communities.

I saw when visiting the IDENTITY Project, children who were so eager to embrace the education opportunities offered to them by the KMWSC. In the Brickfields Project, I was amazed to see how teachers had constructed the most inspiring and comprehensive classroom spaces from nothing. In the Redlight Project, I spent time with unbelievably intelligent, kind, and resilient children, empowered by the KMWSC to pursue their passions and education. When visiting the Tribal Community Development and Empowerment Project, I saw hundreds of local children marching through the streets, aware of their rights due to the work of the KMWSC. At the Climate Action and Biodiversity Project, I observed how the KMWSC facilitated community members to implement sustainable practices in their lives to their economic benefit.

This is to say, the KMWSC’ work is expansive and transformative. It improves people’s lives in more ways than one, and it is appreciated deeply by those who the projects seek to help. KMWSC projects are defined by the same ethos that emphasises opportunity and dignity but are tailored to specifically suit the needs of different communities and individuals, which I believe makes the KMWSC highly ethical and more impactful.

The work of the KMWSC is meaningful and effective. I urge anyone to contribute in any capacity they can to this amazing organisation.

I would finally like to thank the CJ (formerly Loreto) Sisters and KMWSC staff for their hospitality. In this week spent at the KMWSC, I learnt so much, felt truly welcomed, and was inspired by open-hearted spirit of those who were involved in these projects.