My Life, My Map – Project PRAGATI

“My Life, My Map” is a visual art and critical thinking initiative which was designed for children aged 12–14 across 50 government schools of Kakori and Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh. 

Developed under Project PRAGATI in collaboration with the YES Foundation, the project reimagined maps not merely as geographical tools, but as reflections of memory, identity, heritage, and lived experience. Through drawing, observation, storytelling, and discussion, children created personal and community maps rooted in their everyday surroundings.

With a reach of over 3000+ students, the project encouraged students to connect with local Awadhi heritage, question how histories are represented, and see their own lives and environments as meaningful parts of larger cultural narratives. 

Rooted in the philosophy of the OpenDoors Art Program, the initiative uses intentional art practices to nurture reflection, belonging, visual learning, and social-emotional growth in classrooms.