Portia Putatunda, a former journalist, has transformed her grief into hope by establishing a free boarding school for underprivileged children in Komic—the highest inhabited village in India. Inspired by her father’s passion for teaching and community service, she now dedicates her life to education and care in the remote Spiti Valley.
- Free boarding school serves underprivileged children in Komic village
- Founder left journalism to dedicate herself to education in Spiti Valley
- School offers comprehensive care—education, food, and shelter
What happened
Portia Putatunda, once a journalist in Mumbai, chose to leave her professional life behind and dedicate herself to a deeply personal mission in the Spiti Valley. After losing her father, whose kindness towards children inspired her, Portia found solace and purpose by teaching kids in the remote mountain region. Starting by simply teaching street children in Kaza, she eventually founded a free boarding school under the Planet Spiti Foundation in Komic, India’s highest village.
The school offers more than just education—Portia acts as a teacher, caretaker, and guardian, providing food, clothing, and shelter to children who otherwise have little access to such resources. Her work addresses the educational gap in these isolated rural areas, helping children continue their learning and personal growth despite their challenging circumstances.
Why it feels good
Portia’s transformation from a successful journalist to a devoted educator highlights the power of channeling personal loss into positive change. Her story is one of healing and hope, showing how dedication to community can bring purpose and joy after grief. The children in the Spiti Valley now have a safe, supportive space where they can learn and thrive — a priceless gift in such a remote and resource-scarce environment.
Moreover, the initiative shines a light on remote mountain communities often overlooked when it comes to educational opportunities. By addressing this gap, Portia ensures these children receive not only knowledge but also the nurturing needed to build confidence and look forward to a brighter future.
What to enjoy or watch next
Readers interested in uplifting grassroots stories might want to follow updates from the Planet Spiti Foundation and learn more about similar educational projects in remote regions. Documentaries or photojournalism pieces exploring life in the Himalayan valleys could provide enriching context about the unique challenges and culture of villages like Komic.
For those inspired by Portia’s journey, volunteering or supporting educational initiatives in underserved communities can be a rewarding way to contribute. Additionally, exploring stories of individuals who have turned personal hardship into acts of service around the world can offer both motivation and insight into the transformative impact of compassion.