Survival to Sanctuary
Noori’s journey began with adversity at just eight years old that forced her to flee her home due to relentless abuse and discrimination stemming from her identity and mannerisms. By the age of 18, she found herself navigating the harsh realities of life as a sex worker, born out of necessity in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, where she had no means to provide for herself.

In 1987, Noori received the devastating news of her HIV-positive status, adding another layer of challenge to her already difficult existence. However, in the midst of her struggles, Noori found a new purpose – to become a beacon of hope for others. She made the courageous decision to leave behind her former life and dedicated herself to community outreach.

Even as she faced her own trials, Noori took on the responsibility of caring for three children – Nirosha, Anand, and Vinod – using whatever resources she had available. Dr. Usha Raghavan, a counselor, discovered Noori’s compassionate efforts and offered support, recognising her tireless commitment to the well-being of others. Noori shares, “As soon as I found out I was HIV+, I decided not to spread it to anyone. The doctors told me that I would only survive for two years, and whoever commented on me, I don’t know where they are now, but with God’s grace, I have been healthy for 36 years. I want to do more for my community and achieve a lot”.

From 1987 to 1993, Dr. Usha provided invaluable assistance, while Noori sustained herself through tailoring work and continued her caregiving role. Their partnership expanded further as Dr. Usha established the ‘Community Action Network,’ an NGO focused on raising awareness about STDs and providing support to marginalised communities, including transgender individuals, men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), and others affected by STDs.

Together, Noori and Dr. Usha helped their community, showing how compassion and resilience can overcome adversity. They built a brighter future, providing hope and sanctuary to those in need.

The Birth of SIP Memorial Trust
In 2003, Noori started the SIP Memorial Trust to help HIV-infected kids have a safe place and a chance for a better life. Among many abandoned children in India, Noori is determined to bring them hope and happiness. One day, she found a baby girl left in a bin with a note saying she had HIV and her parents couldn’t care for her. Seeing the baby’s terrible condition—covered in dirt with torn intestines—Noori acted quickly to get her help. Thankfully, the baby survived, marking the start of Noori’s mission to support HIV-infected children. Today, that baby is an 18-year-old student, healthy and HIV-negative.

Achievements
Noori continues to strive for more achievements within her community. In 2004, she obtained her first ration card under the name ‘Noori Aravani.’ She has been honoured with the ‘Best Social Activist’ award by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Dr. J. Jayalalithaa and the ‘Best Mother’ award by former Tamil Nadu Governor Konijeti Rosaiah.

Presently, Noori oversees the care of 40 HIV-infected children and adults, ensuring they have shelter, food, clothing, and access to education. She considers them her own children, her duty, and her calling. As she remains dedicated to their welfare, she also aims to raise awareness about the Trust and extend support to many more children in need.

“On this International Women’s Day, I wish all women worldwide, urging them to cultivate learning, love, and embrace the relationship between daughters-in-law and mothers-in-law. As a woman and a mother, I believe we should all strive to be heroic examples within society.” says Noori.

Future plans of SIP Memorial Trust
Noori has diligently saved over 8 crore rupees for her children under the SIP Trust. She plans to utilize these funds to establish an old age home for HIV-infected transgender women near Periyapalayam. Her unwavering commitment to prevent the spread of HIV, coupled with her compassionate efforts to assist others, has left a profound impact on those around her. Despite doctors’ predictions of limited survival, Noori has defied the odds, spreading kindness for 36 years and crediting it to the grace of God, her smile shining bright.