ANIKA

In April 1994, when Anika left PALNA for Toronto, Canada, she was just a 3-month old infant. With little to no recollection of PALNA, Anika always knew she was adopted as she was growing up. Her parents never shied away from being open about her adoption as they wanted to let Anika know about her unique story and journey.

As Anika grew into a young adult, she started asking questions like, “why was I given up?” and “who are my biological parents?”. It was a period of insecurity and confusion for her, despite her parents’ love and support, and it was during this time that Anika realised she wanted to visit PALNA with her parents. She felt that a visit to PALNA would be an incredible experience not only for her, but for her adoptive parents as well, as they would be going back after almost twenty years.

In 2014, Anika finally got the opportunity to visit PALNA. The first thing that caught her attention was the little cane cradle at the gate, but little did she know that a life-affirming experience awaited her inside.

Anika had the opportunity to meet the selfless and giving staff at PALNA. She got the chance to walk around the home. She also saw the rooms where babies with exceptionalities are cared for. Her favourite moment though, was visiting a classroom full of eager, happy children. Their bright smiles and wide eyes brought tears to her own.

It was a moment of immense clarity for her. Her interaction with the children helped Anika understand the magic of PALNA. Some children wait years to find a home, which made Anika realise what a blessing her parents had been in her life. And she came out feeling a strong desire to adopt a child herself in the future.

Providing a home that is safe, nurturing and filled with love, is something to be treasured, and that's exactly what PALNA does for its children. The experience gave Anika closure to all the questions and thoughts she had had earlier in her life. It also made her realise that her biological parents gave her up for adoption to give her the opportunity for a better and more fulfilled life, and for that Anika was forever thankful and grateful. 

As a 26-year old woman now, Anika has completed her undergraduate degree in Communications Studies, and a post graduate diploma in Event Management. She is passionate about charity work. She now works for a not-for-profit organization in Toronto, which helps provide musical instruments, equipment, and resources, to youth in need, in schools and communities across Canada. This work provides her with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Anika has also started her own event management company which helps empower and engage the community in which she lives. She loves to travel and explore new places, spaces, and cultures.  

Anika wants every adopted child to know they should never feel ashamed, nor unloved, and believe instead, in the process and the journey:

“Surround yourself with people who love you and be proud of who you are. You may not feel like you're in control of your life, but in reality you ARE in control of your destiny, and it's up to you to make your dreams a reality.”