Changing lives in Bangalore
New to Santa Sabina, Imali is already living the Dominican spirit of service through the Akka Project, supporting children across four schools in Bangalore.
When most other 12‑year‑olds are settling into their first year of high school, Imali Bamji is also preparing for her third volunteer trip to India – work she proudly calls ‘funateering’ rather than volunteering.
‘I don’t really like to call it volunteering,’ she says. ‘I call it funateering – because I love it so much.’
Imali’s involvement in service began long before she arrived at Santa Sabina. Her mother volunteered in India as a teenager after moving there with her family, and the experience remained deeply embedded in her life. Years later, she hoped her children could carry that spirit forward – and so the Akka Project was born.
The Akka Project brings Australian mothers and daughters to Bangalore to make an impact at Parikrma Humanity Foundation – to spend time assisting at four partner schools that support children living below the poverty line – many of whom come from nearby slums and face complex challenges in accessing education.
‘It’s a school for kids who are really struggling,’ Imali explains. ‘But they’re so excited to learn. We go there, make friendships, help with lessons – and just play.’
A day in the life of a ‘funateer’
Imali’s description of a typical day reads like a mixture of school, community and joyful energy.
The day begins with a ride through the city in an auto rickshaw or on the school bus, followed by morning assembly and cultural exchanges. Volunteers then help with a writing program, working with children who are strengthening their English literacy skills.
‘We go to different classes and help wherever we’re needed,’ she says. ‘Sometimes we teach them about Australian culture. Sometimes we just hang out with the kids.’
Lunch is part of the immersive experience.
‘We have the same food as the kids. We sit and eat with our hands, just like they do. You’re really with them.’
Trips typically last 10–12 days, though the Bamji family often extends their stay to help prepare, set up and support the schools beyond classroom time. In 2026, the Akka Project participants will also donate books to the schools.
Finding joy, not obligation
For Imali, service isn’t about charity – it’s about connection.
‘I just like interacting with kids who aren’t addicted to their phones. It’s real life. We’re just having fun.’
But her interest in India is deeper than play. She is observing, learning and growing into a global citizen.
‘It’s not just about service,’ she says. ‘It’s also discovering and growing yourself too.’
Though still in Year 7, Imali talks about the future with some clarity. She’s considering law, politics or even running the Akka Project full‑time.
‘I want to keep doing this – and one day, do it with my own kids.’
At Santa Sabina, Imali is also passionate about Visual Arts, Music (she’s a bass guitar player), Maths, Netball and wants to try out for Debating.
Imali sees a natural alignment between the Akka Project and Santa Sabina’s Dominican values.
‘I think it fits really well with the service ethos here,’ she says. ‘Volunteering for the greater good – and learning from others.’
Her commitment to compassion, community and joyful service is a powerful expression of the Dominican heart. Even as a new student, Imali is already a living example of how young people can shape a fairer world through relationship, courage and love while embracing our 2026 theme – Accept the Invitation. This theme encourages us to remain open to new possibilities, to growth and to the daily invitations God places before us in our learning and relationships. Imali has accepted our invitation to relationship, to purpose, to action.
‘It’s not just helping others. It’s growing yourself as a global citizen.’
As she settles into Year 7, one thing is clear: Imali Bamji doesn’t just talk about making a difference. She’s already doing it – and she’s having fun every step of the way.
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Imali Bamji has been named by the NSW Government in the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 Finalists. Imali is one of 10 ‘Ones to Watch’, a list which recognises young women aged 7 to 15, who demonstrate a single act or ongoing acts of courage, bravery, strength, determination and/or kindness to help and support those around them, the next generation of rising stars. We are so proud of her!
*Akka means big sister in several Dravidian languages of South India.
Victoria Harper
Editor