Hearts Behind the Foundation: Shivam Gupta

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” — Aesop

My name is Shivam Gupta, and my journey in the development sector began in 2014. Over the years, I had the opportunity to work with individuals between the ages of 18 to 35. My journey involved supporting the youth, empowering communities, and learning invaluable lessons on the way.

While the work was fulfilling, I gradually felt a deeper pull. I realized that my heart wanted to be where the impact begins first: in childhood. I wanted to contribute to the lives of children, especially those who are vulnerable and in critical need of care. This feeling marked a significant turn in my life and career.

Finding Purpose Through Genesis Foundation

In December 2024, I joined the Genesis Foundation. An NGO in Haryana, the foundation supports heart disorder treatment of children suffering from congenital heart defect (CHD). The moment I became part of this life-saving mission, everything felt different. I was not just working with hands or mind, but with heart.

After a month, I got a chance to meet a child’s family, whose treatment we supported. A moment that I will never forget. After the successful heart surgery of the child, the family came to me and said, “Thank you very much for saving our child”. The words were simple, but the spirit behind the family was deep. I felt a shift within me. It was in that moment; I really understood the meaning of service.

Since then, as a team, Genesis Foundation has supported more than 5,000 children struggling with CHD. Behind each child is a story of power, hope and love. To know that I have played even a small part in these stories is the greatest honour of my professional life.

My Role at Genesis Foundation

The work I do is not easy. It comes with emotional weight. But it also comes with unmatched happiness. Every life saved is a miracle. Every smile restored is a dream come true.

Here at Genesis Foundation, I manage the East, West and Central region of India. My work begins with reaching out to our partner hospitals to learn about children suffering from congenital heart defect (CHD). I talk to doctors to understand the condition, symptoms and urgency of each child. Once I have all the details, I get in touch with the child’s family. I listen to their problems, answer their questions, and try to assure them. Once I verify the all the documents, I quickly proceed to support the child’s treatment. It is a process filled with coordination, sympathy and urgency – because every second matters when it comes to a child with heart conditions. But my role does not end at the hospital door. After the heart disorder treatment, I personally make it a point to meet the child and family at the hospital. It is a gesture of celebration and hope. Even after surgery, I stay in touch with the family to track the child’s recovery. Throughout the process, I make sure to hold the family’s hands and be with them in their child’s fight.

Through my work at Genesis Foundation, I have come to understand that every child we help is not just a case. They are a story of survival, strength, and second chances. And I feel grateful to play a part in that story.