
Ria Sharma: Championing Resilience through Make Love Not Scars.
In the tapestry of social entrepreneurship, Ria Sharma’s name shines as a beacon of hope for acid attack survivors in India. Hailing from Dahanu, Maharashtra, she has dedicated her life to transforming the narratives of victims and building a support system that nurtures their physical and emotional healing. As the founder of “Make Love Not Scars” (MLNS), Ria Sharma’s journey is a testament to her compassion, determination, and unwavering commitment to change. Ria’s story began in 2014 when she returned to India from the UK with a mission to shine a light on the harrowing experiences of acid attack survivors.
Inspired by the strength and resilience of these individuals, she founded “Make Love Not Scars” to provide holistic support to victims and challenge the societal stigma that surrounds them. MLNS doesn’t merely offer assistance; it fosters a community of survivors who inspire each other to reclaim their lives. Recognizing that the scars of an acid attack are not just physical, the organization works tirelessly to provide psychological and emotional counseling, helping survivors heal from the inside out. One of Ria’s groundbreaking initiatives was establishing India’s first rehabilitation center for acid attack survivors. This center not only provides medical care but also imparts skills and training to survivors, empowering them to regain their independence and find dignified employment. By facilitating job placements, “Make Love Not Scars” empowers survivors to support themselves and their families, reinstating their sense of agency and purpose.
Ria’s entrepreneurship isn’t confined to helping individuals heal; she is also a change agent working to prevent future attacks. MLNS has launched campaigns to end the sale of acid, a critical step toward addressing the root cause of this heinous crime. Her efforts have garnered widespread recognition, both locally and globally, shedding light on the urgency of this issue. Ria Sharma’s journey reflects the power of empathy, action, and community. Her passion for change has not only transformed the lives of survivors but has also created a movement that challenges societal norms and champions equality and dignity for all.
As Ria Sharma continues to lead the charge through MLNS, her legacy is one of empowerment, advocacy, and the belief that collective action can dismantle the barriers that perpetuate suffering. Her story 0f “Make Love Not Scars” is an inspiration, reminding us that every individual possesses the potential to drive meaningful change and make the world a more inclusive and compassionate place.
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