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Beauty is what Beauty does

Century Heroes, a commendable CSR initiative by CenturyPly, is dedicated to the spirit of the festive season. In this year's heartfelt campaign, we turn our attention to the remarkable survivors of acid attacks. These individuals, through their incredible resilience, exemplify the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. The campaign's primary objective is to amplify the voices of acid attack survivors, bringing their stories to the forefront and inspiring others with their strength. It's a platform to educate and inform society about the challenges they face, from physical and emotional scars to societal prejudice and discrimination. As we celebrate the festive season, CenturyPly's support for acid attack survivors is a poignant reminder of the enduring human capacity to overcome hardships. We encourage everyone to join us in this noble cause, creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.

About CenturyHeroes

CenturyHeroes is an award winning campaign undertaken annually in the hope to drive awareness and sensitivity towards causes and matters that are often ignored but integral to society.

The campaign also aims to pay tribute to the community of architects & interior designers for their craftsmanship as they are not only the creative craftsmen of a home but also a source of heartwarming happiness.

Following the legacy of reiterating the commitment towards excellence that started back in 2014, this year CenturyPly has taken a step ahead and showered tribute for heroes beyond the glory of festivities.

In Association with Brave Souls Foundation

The Brave Souls Foundation is a non-profit organisation established and led by acid attack survivors. It represents a collective of social activists, lawyers, researchers, and individuals driven to prevent acid attacks, combat gender-based violence, and improve the welfare of survivors.

Within the last two years, it has successfully facilitated over 200 reconstructive surgeries for survivors, ensured compensation for more than 150 individuals affected by acid attacks, and achieved a record of pursuing over 50 cases without a single acquittal of the perpetrators.

Empowering Acid Attack Survivors

CenturyPly and CenturyLaminates, in collaboration with the Brave Souls Foundation, have made significant contributions to the rehabilitation of five acid attack survivors. Their combined efforts have not only provided financial support but also emotional and psychological assistance to these survivors, helping them regain their confidence and rebuild their lives. The support extended by CenturyPly and CenturyLaminates has enabled these survivors to access medical treatments, counseling, and skill development programs. This partnership has exemplified the power of corporate social responsibility in making a positive impact in the lives of those who have faced unimaginable challenges.

Acid attack Stats in India

Figures from the National Crime Record Bureau for 2021 suggest that more than a thousand acid attacks have been reported in the last five years.

  • The number of reported acid violence cases hovers around 200 annually
  • Globally, 80 per cent of acid attack survivors are women, and 60 per cent of cases go unreported
  • 76% of the attacks are committed by a person known to the victim.

How acid attack changes personality and behaviour?

An acid attack can change a person's personality and behavior in these ways:

  • Physical Scars: It can make them feel less confident due to severe scars on their body or face.
  • Emotional Pain: It may cause them to feel very sad, angry, or scared because of the attack.
  • Isolation: They might withdraw from friends and social activities because they fear how people will treat them.
  • Different Priorities: They may focus more on healing and helping others who went through similar experiences.
  • Strength and Advocacy: Some survivors become strong advocates for change.
  • Trust Issues: They might find it hard to trust others because they were intentionally hurt.

Why acid attack Survivors need therapy

Acid attack survivors often need therapy for several important reasons:

  • Psychological Trauma: Acid attacks can cause severe psychological trauma, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Therapy can help survivors manage and overcome these mental health challenges.
  • Emotional Support: Survivors may experience intense emotions such as fear, anger, and sadness. Therapy provides a safe space to express these emotions and learn healthy coping mechanisms.
  • Self-Esteem and Confidence: Therapy can assist survivors in rebuilding their self-esteem and self-confidence, which may have been greatly affected by the physical scars and disfigurement resulting from the attack.
  • Social and Relationship Issues: Survivors may struggle with social interactions and forming new relationships due to stigma and trust issues. Therapy can help them develop better social skills and navigate these challenges.
  • Post-Traumatic Growth: While therapy addresses trauma, it can also help survivors find strength and resilience, fostering personal growth and empowerment.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: Therapists can work alongside medical professionals to aid in the physical and emotional recovery process, ensuring a holistic approach to healing.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Some survivors may want to become advocates or activists to prevent future attacks. Therapy can provide them with the emotional tools needed for this important work.

Why it is important to take action

Taking action is especially important for an acid attack survivor for several reasons:

Some other changes you might see:

  • Physical Recovery: Action is necessary to access immediate medical treatment and surgeries, which can minimize physical damage and enhance the chances of recovery.
  • Emotional Healing: Taking action, such as seeking therapy or counseling, is crucial for addressing the emotional trauma and psychological scars that often result from an acid attack.
  • Legal Justice: Action can involve pursuing legal action against the perpetrator, ensuring they are held accountable for their actions. This can provide a sense of justice and closure for the survivor.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Many survivors choose to take action by becoming advocates, raising awareness about acid attacks, and working to prevent future attacks. Their actions can drive positive change in society.
  • Support Networks: Seeking support from friends, family, and support groups is essential for recovery. Taking action to build and maintain these support networks can provide emotional strength and encouragement.
  • Empowerment: By taking action to rebuild their lives, survivors can regain a sense of control and empowerment over their futures.
  • Raising Awareness: Survivors who share their stories can raise awareness about the devastating consequences of acid attacks, leading to increased public understanding and empathy.
  • Preventing Future Attacks: Through their actions and advocacy, survivors can contribute to efforts aimed at preventing acid attacks and supporting victims.

Let's extend our Support!

Supporting an acid attack survivor through your behavior involves being compassionate, empathetic, and understanding. Here are some ways you can help:

How can you help an acid attack survivor with your behaviour

  • Listen Actively: Allow them to talk about their feelings and experiences. Be a patient and non-judgmental listener, offering your full attention.
  • Respect Their Privacy: Understand that they may not want to discuss their ordeal or their scars. Respect their boundaries and only engage in conversations they are comfortable with.
  • Avoid Staring or Pity: Don't stare at their scars or treat them with pity. Instead, treat them with the same respect and dignity you would offer anyone else.
  • Be Supportive: Offer your support and encouragement in their journey to recovery, whether it's physical, emotional, or psychological. Let them know you're there for them.
  • Educate Yourself: Learn about the challenges faced by acid attack survivors, including the physical and emotional aspects. This knowledge can help you be more empathetic and understanding.
  • Be Inclusive: Include them in social activities and gatherings, but don't pressure them if they're not comfortable. Give them the option to participate.
  • Advocate for Their Rights: Support efforts to raise awareness about acid attacks and advocate for policies that protect survivors' rights and provide them with the help they need.
  • Encourage Professional Help: If you notice signs of emotional distress, encourage them to seek therapy or counseling. Offer to help them find suitable resources if needed.
  • Celebrate Their Strength: Recognize and celebrate their resilience and strength in overcoming adversity. Acknowledge their achievements and milestones in their recovery journey.

Testimonials

Anmol was 2 months old when she and her mother were attacked by her father because her mother had given birth to a girl child. She lost her mother in the tragedy and her father was arrested soon after. She was raised by an orphanage in Mumbai.

Today, Anmol is a global Fashion Designer and Influencer and is also a TedX Speaker.

- Anmol Rodriguez.