Ria Sharma stands as a beacon of hope and change in India’s social landscape, pioneering efforts to support and rehabilitate acid attack survivors through her organization, Make Love Not Scars (MLNS). As the first Indian recipient of the UNICEF Global Goals Awards in 2017, Sharma’s journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to creating a better world.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1992 and raised in New Delhi, Ria Sharma’s upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of empathy and social responsibility. She pursued her education at Pathways World School in Haryana before embarking on her journey to the United Kingdom, where she graduated from the prestigious Leeds College of Art. It was during her time in the UK that Sharma’s path took a transformative turn.

Founding Make Love Not Scars

In 2014, at the age of 21, Sharma returned to India and was deeply moved by the plight of acid attack survivors. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, she founded Make Love Not Scars (MLNS), a groundbreaking NGO dedicated to providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation services to survivors, predominantly women. Through crowd-funded initiatives and social media campaigns, MLNS offers physical and emotional support to survivors, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.

Sharma’s commitment to solidarity with survivors was exemplified by her decision to forego makeup for a year, symbolizing her unwavering support for their cause.

End Acid Sale Campaign

One of MLNS’s most impactful initiatives is the “End Acid Sale” campaign, launched in 2015 to advocate for a ban on the retail sale of acids. Through widespread awareness efforts and a petition drive, the campaign garnered global support and accolades, including the prestigious Cannes Gold Lion in Film. This groundbreaking campaign not only raised awareness but also catalyzed legislative change, leading to significant reforms in the treatment and compensation of acid attack victims.

Recognition and Awards

Sharma’s tireless efforts have garnered international acclaim and recognition. In 2017, she became the first Indian to receive the United Nations Goalkeepers Global Award, honoring her extraordinary contributions to advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls. Additionally, Sharma’s impactful work was recognized with the British Council’s Social Impact Award in 2016 and the India Today Woman Of The Year for Public Service in 2017.

Under Sharma’s visionary leadership, Make Love Not Scars was honored with The CNBC TV18 India Business Leader Award (IBLA) for “Brand Of The Year” in 2017, underscoring the organization’s transformative impact on society.

A Legacy of Empowerment and Change

Ria Sharma’s journey is not just about providing aid; it’s about fostering empowerment and resilience among survivors, enabling them to reclaim their lives with courage and dignity. Through her pioneering efforts with Make Love Not Scars, Sharma has not only changed individual lives but has also sparked a broader conversation about gender-based violence and social justice in India and beyond. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations, reminding us of the transformative power of compassion and activism in creating a more equitable and inclusive world.

Reference: WikiPedia