“It taught me not just to run, but to fly.”
When Priyanka became a Sitara in 2009, it marked the q of a transformative journey. At 12, when every child dreams of the future, Abhyudaya not only gave her the courage to dream but also the strength to follow those dreams.
With activity-filled Sundays, the idea of a ‘rest day’ gradually faded. Priyanka had always loved dance but had never received formal training. Through Abhyudaya, she learnt Kathak for nine years and completed her Visharad. Each year, mentors visited her home and supported her throughout.
“At an age when it’s easy to fall into the wrong company, my mentor became a guide and a wise friend who consistently helped me stay on the right path.”
Abhyudaya not only transformed Priyanka but also changed her family’s outlook. Transitioning from a Marathi-medium school and speaking broken English, she learnt not to compare herself with convent-educated students. At a time when even paying school fees was a challenge for her family, Abhyudaya helped her to enrol in coaching classes for her class 10 and 12 exams and JEE preparation.
“With every mentor, a deep emotional bond naturally forms, a bond that stays with you for life. They didn’t just teach us subjects; they taught us confidence, clarity, and character.”
Priyanka has completed her MSc IT and now works at TSYS/Global Payments as an Associate Senior Network Analyst. She previously spent four years at Infosys and two years at Capgemini. She continues to grow in the networking domain and aims to advance her expertise every day. Priyanka often returns to Abhyudaya to discuss her life and career options.
“It is my sincere wish that, in the future, I am able to give back to Abhyudaya in any way I can, just as they supported me.”
