By Alka Thochom
Imphal, April 18:
In a world fraught with threats, Hope Children Home stands as a beacon of protection and opportunity for vulnerable youth. Founded by Gangaimei Phaomei in 2014, this haven in Khumji, Noney District has nurtured countless young dreams, including that of Lammaeilu (Thoibi) Gangmei, a rising star in the boxing arena.
Thoibi’s journey is one of resilience and determination, starting from the depths of loss to the heights of sporting success. Orphaned at a young age, she found refuge in Hope Children Home after the passing of her grandparents in 2014. Under the watchful eye of Gangaimei Phaomei, Thoibi’s talents flourished, particularly in the realm of sports.
Recognizing her potential, Phaomei encouraged Thoibi to pursue her passion for boxing. Despite financial constraints, he facilitated her enrollment at the prestigious Mary Kom Boxing Academy in 2022. Thoibi’s rapid ascent in the boxing world began with district-level victories and culminated in a gold medal at the 1st Governor’s Cup Boxing in the Junior Category.
However, Thoibi’s journey is not without its challenges. Despite the support provided by the academy, her basic needs are still managed by Hope Children Home, highlighting the ongoing struggle to balance athletic dreams with daily necessities.
Yet, Hope Children Home itself faces hurdles. Despite support from organizations like the Sunbird Trust Organisation, financial strains persist, exacerbated by construction debts due to the rugged terrain of the location. Gangaimei Phaomei calls upon the government to recognize the potential of these bright young minds and provide the necessary assistance to ensure their futures shine as brightly as their dreams.
As Thoibi continues to pursue her aspirations of becoming the best boxer in the state, her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of community support and the resilience of the human spirit. In the corridors of Hope Children Home, amidst the echoes of laughter and the dreams of tomorrow, hope prevails, urging us all to invest in the promise of our youth for a brighter future.
