At the heart of every challenge lies the seed of opportunity, and the courage to nurture this seed defines our journey. Gangamma’s story is a testament to this truth. Affected by Polio at the tender age of three, she faced many obstacles. Yet, with unwavering dedication and the support of the RDT, she has overcome these hurdles and become a source of inspiration to many.

Born into a family of seven siblings, Gangamma’s early life was a hardship. Despite the difficulties, she pursued her education, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from Sri Krishna Devaraya University. Her academic journey was just the beginning of her quest to carve out a place for herself in the world.

After her studies, she initially worked at Bathalapalli Jute Centre and learnt block printing. However, her curiosity and passion for digital technology led her to explore new opportunities. Recognising her potential, she embarked on a path of enhancing her communication abilities and computer operations. She participated in workshops and training programmes held by RDT. These workshops helped Gangamma develop her skills, further equipping her with the tools necessary to secure employment with an MNC Company. “My journey to finding my place in the professional world was filled with doubt,” reflects Gangamma, “it was the support of RDT and hard work that helped me secure a job.”

For Gangamma, her mother has been an unwavering pillar of strength. “My mother’s belief in me has been my constant source of motivation. She always supported me, whether it was for my education or any other endeavours,” says Gangamma. Her journey shows that success is not just personal but can inspire others, too. She advises others to believe in themselves and with hard work, dedication, and confidence, anything is possible.  

Gangamma is not only achieving her dreams but also helping her family move economically forward. She extends her support to her younger sister, helping her pursue higher education and achieve her goals. Gangamma says, “If we label ourselves as disabled and confine ourselves to our homes, we will never find encouragement. It’s essential to feel confident and strong, to step out of the box and face the challenges.” As Gangamma continues to illuminate paths of hope and resilience, her journey remains a beacon of inspiration. With unwavering determination and support, challenges seem impossible.

Text: Namratha Rao Malkar

Images: Vasu Kalavapalli