Talent Search & Mentoring

About the Program

The Talent Search & Mentoring (TSM) Program was initiated at the end of 2022, as a special effort to mark the 75th year of India’s Independence. Beyond the milestone, the program emerged from a deeper intent—to recognise that among the students supported by HTBF are individuals with exceptional talent, motivation, or clarity of purpose, who could benefit from more personalised guidance.

TSM aims to identify such students early, understand their areas of interest and strength, and support them in pursuing excellence in their chosen fields—whether through mentoring, targeted assistance, or both.

Areas of Talent Supported

The program is open to students demonstrating ability or strong interest in areas including (but not limited to):

• Writing and communication
• Computer and technical skills
• Public speaking and leadership
• Sports
• Music (singing and instruments)
• Academic excellence and research aspirations
• Each student’s journey is unique, and support is tailored accordingly.

TSM is deeply volunteer-driven. Through regular interaction with beneficiary students especially during scholarship interviews and follow-ups HTBF volunteers help identify potential candidates based on:

• Demonstrated talent or motivation
• Consistent effort and commitment
• Clear long-term aspirations

While the initial goal was to identify 75 students, 52 students were eventually shortlisted, ensuring that attention and mentoring remained meaningful and focused.

Support under the TSM Program varies based on individual needs:

• Targeted financial assistance where required
• Mentoring and guidance where financial aid is not essential
• Exposure, encouragement, and long-term handholding

Some examples of support provided include:

• Cricket kits for three women and one male athlete representing India in the Blind Cricket teams
• A keyboard and a desktop computer for students pursuing music and sound mixing
• Academic mentoring for students aspiring to careers in teaching and research

In several cases, mentoring alone has made a decisive difference. Around a dozen students expressed interest in pursuing careers in academia.

One notable example is Manu Garg, who was mentored and encouraged by HTBF volunteer Mr. Kothandaraman, and has since successfully cleared the UPSC examination to become an IAS officer a powerful reminder of what focused guidance can achieve.

The Talent Search & Mentoring Program has been restarted this year, with volunteers already identifying promising sportspeople, musicians, and other talented students.

As a volunteer-led initiative, the success of TSM depends on sustained engagement, mentorship, and belief in individual potential. The program continues to evolve as we learn from each cohort and expand the support ecosystem around our students.

If you are a student with visual impairment, or if you know a student with a specific talent or strong aspiration who could benefit from mentoring and targeted support, we encourage you to reach out. Write to us at: beneficiary_connect@helptheblind.in