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About Urooj

We exist because potential is everywhere, and opportunity isn't.

Urooj Development & Welfare Foundation is a Section 8 non-profit based in Patna, Bihar. We work with young people aged 14–30 — and we have been at it since 2022.

Our Vision

We envision a society where youth have equitable opportunities to harness their full potential.

Our Mission

To empower youth with relevant skills, access and support to overcome socio-economic, educational and geographic barriers — transforming their potential into meaningful participation in the job market and society.

Our identity, in one line: a platform where youth potential becomes a force for social change.

Founding story

It started with a pandemic, and a question.

An early Urooj cohort gathered at a community hall in Patna

Urooj began in 2022, at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic had left many young people feeling uncertain about their futures. As communities struggled to recover, we saw how youth from marginalized backgrounds were carrying the heaviest burden — facing discrimination, limited opportunities, and a lack of support to pursue their dreams.

We started by listening. Young people shared how they lacked guidance, safe spaces to learn, and access to skills that could open doors to work and independence. In response, we created the Urooj Fellowship Program for Muslim youth — offering mentorship, skill-building and encouragement to help them move forward with confidence.

At the same time, we opened a computer centre for girls in Patna in 2022. For many girls, this became their first opportunity to use a computer, learn digital skills, and imagine new possibilities for themselves in a safe and welcoming environment.

As our work grew, so did our responsibility. In 2024, Urooj was formally registered as a Section 8 company, allowing us to strengthen our foundation, remain accountable, and reach more young people.

Bihar is one of the youngest states in India, full of energy and potential. We believe its future depends on whether its youth — especially those who have been pushed to the margins — are given the chance to grow, dream and contribute. Urooj exists because we believe that when young people are supported with care and opportunity, their potential can become a powerful force for social change.

Who we work with

Young people aged 14–30

Across Bihar, with a focus on those facing socio-economic, educational and geographic barriers.

Since

2022

Registered as a Section 8 Company in 2024.

Values

Four commitments we hold ourselves to.

01

Equity and Inclusion

We prioritize youth from marginalized communities to reduce systemic barriers related to socio-economic status, gender and geography.

02

Opportunity and Access

We focus on creating practical pathways for education, digital literacy and employment, ensuring that youth have the resources and support they need to succeed.

03

Safe and Inclusive Spaces

Especially for girls and marginalized groups, we ensure learning environments are safe, welcoming and empowering.

04

Social Impact and Community Focus

Our ultimate goal is to transform individual potential into broader social change — benefiting families, communities and society.

Culture

How we work, not just what we do.

Five habits that show up in every decision, program and conversation.

Youth-Centered
Decisions, programs and initiatives are guided by the needs, aspirations and feedback of youth.
Empowering and Transformational
We encourage youth to take ownership of their development and contribute to community change.
Inclusive and Equitable
We actively work to reduce barriers for those most marginalized, particularly girls and Muslim youth.
Collaborative
We value partnerships with communities, educators, employers and mentors to amplify impact.
Purpose-Driven
Every program aligns with the vision of enabling youth potential to become a force for social change.
Journey

From an idea to a registered foundation.

January 2022

Idea Initiated

The idea for Urooj Development and Welfare Foundation was initiated in 2022, focusing on education, women's empowerment and youth development.

February 2022

Computer Training Centre Inaugurated

Recognizing the importance of digital literacy, we established a Computer Training Centre to equip youth with modern technological skills.

February 2022

Urooj Fellowship Program Initiated

We launched the Urooj Fellowship Program to foster leadership and social responsibility among Muslim youth, offering them opportunities for grassroots work and personal development.

2024

Urooj Development & Welfare Foundation Registered

Urooj was formally registered as a Section 8 Company with the goal of empowering marginalized communities through education and skill development.

The team

Meet our dedicated team.

The people driving our mission forward.

Abbad Kamal
Abbad Kamal Co-Founder & CEO
Hammad Kamal
Hammad Kamal Co-Founder & Head of Operations
Twinkle
Twinkle Teacher
Recognition

2nd place, 8th National Social Enterprise Idea Challenge

Awarded at Azim Premji University.

Guidance

Mentors from industry, academia and the social sector

Communication, marketing, research, technology, monitoring and evaluation.

Meet the mentors

Come and see what we're building.

Visit a centre, mentor a fellow, or partner with us on the next cohort.