Growing up in the slums of India, I know what it feels like to go without food, clean water, and basic necessities. 

I’ve experienced the struggles of poverty firsthand, and I’ve seen what it does to a child’s hope for a better future. 

For me, giving back isn’t just something I do—it’s deeply personal. It’s about remembering where I came from and making sure that the children growing up in those same conditions have a chance at something better.

Last year, I had the privilege of returning to the slums of Mumbai to donate to children who reminded me of myself at their age. Seeing their smiles and the hope in their eyes fueled my commitment to continue this work. 

This year, we went to Dharavi, another area of Mumbai where children face similar hardships. We handed out school supplies, but more than that, we delivered a message of hope and possibility.

When I look at these children, I see future leaders, dreamers, and change-makers. My mission is to remind them—and everyone else—that no matter where you come from, you have the power to rise above your circumstances and create a better life. 

If you take away ONE thing from my experience, let it be this: acts of kindness can change not just individual lives but entire communities. 

This is why it’s so important for each of us to contribute in our own way. By understanding the benefits of giving back, we can all be part of this transformative journey. Here are some reasons why giving back matters and how it can positively affect both the giver and the receiver:

1. Empowers Others

When we give back, we provide opportunities for those who may feel trapped by their circumstances. By sharing resources, knowledge, or your valuable time, we help others unlock their potential. It’s about planting seeds of hope and enabling individuals to envision a brighter future. This empowerment fosters resilience and inspires a new generation of leaders.

2. It Creates a Cycle of Positivity

When you give, you’re putting positive energy out into the world, and that energy has a way of coming back to you. Whether it’s through opportunities, kindness, or unexpected blessings, your generosity creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone. As Gandhi once said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."

3. It Shifts Your Mindset to Gratitude and Abundance

When you give to others, you remind yourself of everything you already have. It shifts your focus from what you don’t have to what you do, making you feel richer in spirit. Sharing what you have—even a little—brings a deep sense of fulfilment and abundance into your life.

4. Builds Meaningful Connections

Giving back brings people together. Whether you’re volunteering at a local shelter or supporting an educational initiative, you meet others who share your passion for making a difference. These shared experiences cultivate a sense of belonging and create lasting relationships. The connections formed through acts of kindness strengthen the fabric of our communities.

5. It Helps You Grow as a Person

When you step outside of your own needs and give to others, it helps you grow. It challenges us to step outside our comfort zones. It teaches valuable lessons in empathy, humility, and resilience. When we witness the struggles of others, we gain perspective and appreciation for our own lives. This personal growth not only enriches our character but also enhances our ability to relate to and support those around us.

Your actions, no matter how small, have the power to change the world. Whether it's donating school supplies, offering a helping hand, or just being kind, every bit counts. 

Let’s all strive to be the difference we wish to see in the world. 

Be blessed.

P.S. I want to thank my good friends, Robert Kiyosaki, Robert G. Allen, and everyone else who has helped with this initiative.