MUSCAT: Gobhanu Korisepati, the founder of SWIFT (Sustaining Women in Financial Turmoil), a microfinance NGO run by students of ABA Oman International School, Muscat, has been conferred with the distinguished Diana Award.
Established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, The Diana Award is the most prestigious accolade young changemakers aged 9-25 years can receive for their social action and humanitarian work.
This is the first time that the Diana Awards for innovation, humanity and mental health has been introduced in the Sultanate of Oman. HH Sayyida Basma al Said, founder of Whispers of Serenity Clinic was the first and only Arab judge for The Diana Awards 2022.
SWIFT has been able to provide financial assistance to over 1,200 women across 71 countries.
As a student-run NGO, SWIFT has over 35 ABA students working towards creating an equitable world with equal access to opportunities. “Through microfinance and its world-changing potential, we lend money directly to underprivileged women, aiding them to flourish and support themselves, their families, and their local communities,” expressed Gobhanu, who is also the President of the ABA High School Student Council.
Al Faisal al Abdullatif, PRO of the Student Council and core committee member of SWIFT stated, “As global citizens, it is our mission to inspire and empower young inquirers to make a difference, and impact positive change in the community. It is heartening to witness ABA students selflessly contributing to the SWIFT microfinance initiative through fundraisers and sales, the proceeds of which directly benefit the needy.”
