In 2018, at the age of 68, Armin found her way to Ahura Support. Like some of our other residents, she had no permanent address and no known family to turn to. What she did have, however, was quiet resilience, a gentle nature and a heart that longed for connection.

Not much is known about Armin Manek Gandhi’s past – where she came from or  what her life was like before she lived at a residential facility similar to ours or who her family was. What is certain, however, is that when that facility shut down, she needed a new home, one that would not just accommodate her but understand her.

At first, she was reserved and shy, hesitant to take up space or make herself known. But Ahura Support isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to belong. Slowly, Armin began to unfold in our nurturing environment. 

And today, 7 years later, she finds joy in being gainfully occupied and is always eager to help keep the residential home neat and organised. She follows instructions diligently, taking pride in every task she undertakes. 

As a beneficiary of our Vocational Training Centre, she applies herself wholeheartedly, proving to be a quiet, conscientious worker, dedicated to doing her best.

Beyond work, music is Armin’s solace. She loves to sing and her passion for art shines through as she participates in drawing competitions, even winning accolades for her talent. When she feels distressed, thinking about a past she cannot fully articulate, the care and patience of our staff and the camaraderie with the other beneficiaries help her get through the turbulent emotions.

Armin’s biggest transformation, however, came not from realising what she could do but in who she was allowed to be. At Ahura Support, Armin has never been asked to change, to suppress her emotions or to conform. She is simply given space to be herself.

Today, she thrives here where she is loved, understood and valued, not just for what she does but for who she is.

For Armin, Ahura Support is more than just a shelter. It is the place where she was finally given the freedom to be herself.