Empowering with purpose

Connecting Dreams Foundation has been driving systemic changes by equipping marginalized communities, including transgender individuals, with skills, confidence, and mentorship, to ensure inclusive livelihoods and sustainable economic independence

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Connecting Dreams Foundation (CDF) works on the belief that real transformation happens when root causes of societal challenges are addressed rather than simply managing their symptoms. Guided by the principles of systemic change, inclusion, and collaboration, the mission is to empower marginalized communities to create sustainable livelihoods and build a future of equity and opportunity. Over the years, the foundation has aligned its work with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), creating programmes that dismantle structural barriers while fostering youth leadership and community-driven innovation.

CDF's approach stems from a deep understanding of systemic inequities. Among the many communities they work with, the transgender community in India faces particularly severe challenges. Two key issues stand out: the lack of acceptance in the larger ecosystem and the absence of meaningful livelihood opportunities. These challenges often leave transgender individuals with no choice but to engage in begging or sex work as a means of survival. This harsh reality is a consequence of social exclusion and discrimination that permeates every aspect of their lives. Recognizing the need for systemic intervention, Transformation Career Progression Fellowship, a programme uniquely designed to address these challenges by empowering transgender individuals to dream beyond survival and achieve meaningful economic independence, was developed.