In August 2008, it was reported that floods in three districts of the northern Indian state of Bihar affected over one million people.

As the banks of the Kosi River overflowed days after part of the river in neighbouring Nepal breached its banks, people were left with no option but to take refuge on embankments, highways and buildings to escape the floodwaters. Many lives were lost.

In response to the disaster, enthusiastic and self-motivated NIIT Technologies staff at the High Wycombe office took action.

Joyce Sedgwick, Natalie Tegala and her mum Parveen (who isn’t actually an employee but wanted to support the cause), generously gave up their time to organise a breakfast fundraiser. Employees were invited to a sumptuous breakfast of tea (including masala tea/coffee), Potato Paratha, fresh fruit salad, savoury and sweet croissants, pastries and doughnuts in exchange for donations to the relief fund.

The showcase of gastronomic delight was the Potato Paratha that was freshly made by Natalies’ mum - who selflessly got up at 5.00am to cook! Our appreciation goes to Parveen who continues to astound us with her generosity - she provided freshly cooked delicious Samosas for the Cricket fundraiser when NIIT UK raised money for the Burmese disaster earlier this year.

Ravi Pandey – NIIT Technologies UK Head, who is originally from the Bihar region was delighted at the initiative and thoroughly enjoyed the repast with the entire High Wycombe team.

We watch regularly coverage of bad news in the media, so it is endearing to see such humanity – A sincere well done to all of those involved. The breakfast raised just under £200, which will be sent to Oxfam GB in support of their response to the Indian floods disaster.

Another initiative of NIIT’s has been to set up a facility for staff to donate one day’s salary to the Bihar Flood victims. The contributions made by staff will be matched by an equal contribution from NIIT, in order to help those at most need; the thousands of people rendered homeless and uncertain of the future.

Natalie Tegala is the Receptionist and Admin support for the High Wycombe office and has recently graduated in International Studies. She is keen to promote corporate responsibility, and having arranged a few fundraising events recently, the desire to do more has increased - although it might involve chaining her Mum to the stove to lend a helping hand!

Natalie describes herself as polite and courteous and always happy to help - although that might work against us when she has another fundraising idea!
Her interests and hobbies include having a hectic social life and commuting up and down the country for weekends to catch up with friends and family.