In 2016, an idea struck the Hi 5 founders – to visit Ashramshala, a residential school for tribal children in Vajreshwari and build a basketball court there. The children, from marginalized communities in Jawhar and Vikramgad, lived in harsh conditions—crumbling cottages, scarce food, and no physical education. Initially, this idea felt misplaced—especially when basic needs weren’t being met. But Hi 5’s core belief—changing young lives through play—prevailed.
None of the children had even heard of basketball. Still, when asked if they’d like to play, they all said yes. Among them was Yogita, a tall, athletic 8th grader who climbed trees with ease but had no clue what basketball was. They began with simple drills in the assembly hall. By January 2017, the first Hi 5 court was ready. Within two months, Yogita and her team were playing—and winning—at a district tournament in Pune. For kids who’d never left their village, it was magical: a reserved bus, a mall visit, a cheering crowd. The experience awakened something new. Confidence replaced hesitation. Dreams were born.
Yogita’s athleticism and instinct stood out. But like many tribal girls, she was expected to quit school after Grade 10 and prepare for marriage. Hi 5 intervened, enrolling her in junior college in Panvel. Then COVID-19 hit, disrupting her education. Although she cleared 11th grade, she was denied permission by her mother to appear for her 12th board exams. Hi 5 convinced her and Yogita returned to complete her exams, but as the final exam ended, she disappeared.
A year and a half later, Yogita returned—now a mother—determined to support herself. Hi 5 hired her as a coach, making her the first tribal girl from the program to do so. Today, she coaches at Ashramshala, balancing motherhood and ambition, inspiring younger girls. She is now pursuing her undergraduate degree and dreams of joining the police force—motivated by the same pride she felt winning her first match.
