Ria Sharma - A Lifestory
Voice For Survivors: Empowering Change, Building A Compassionate World
Ria Sharma is an Indian social activist and entrepreneur renowned for her unwavering dedication to supporting acid attack survivors. Born and raised in India, Ria witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of acid attacks on individuals and their communities, which ignited a deep passion within her to create meaningful change. This commitment led her to establish Make Love Not Scars (MLNS) in 2014, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive support to acid attack survivors in India.
Through MLNS, Ria has spearheaded a range of initiatives aimed at empowering survivors and helping them rebuild their lives. The organization provides crucial medical assistance, including reconstructive surgeries and ongoing treatment, as well as legal aid to navigate the complex justice system and pursue legal recourse against perpetrators. Recognizing the importance of holistic rehabilitation, MLNS also offers vocational training, educational opportunities, and psychological counseling to help survivors regain their confidence, develop new skills, and reintegrate into society.
Ria's tireless efforts have not only provided tangible support to survivors but have also raised significant awareness about the issue of acid attacks in India. She has actively campaigned for stricter laws and regulations to prevent these heinous crimes and has worked to challenge societal attitudes and stigmas surrounding acid attack survivors. Through her advocacy, she has successfully lobbied for policy changes and increased public understanding of the challenges faced by survivors.
Beyond her work with MLNS, Ria is a soughtafter speaker and advocate, sharing her insights and experiences at national and international forums. Her dedication and unwavering commitment have earned her numerous accolades, including the British Council Generation UKIndia Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award and a nomination for the prestigious Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice. Ria Sharma's work serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of individual action to create positive change and empower marginalized communities.
