At the age of eight, my life took a sharp turn. My parents separated, leaving my mother and me to navigate a world suddenly devoid of stability. With finances tight and uncertainty looming, education became a distant dream.
When my mother remarried, hoping for a fresh start, I thought things might improve. Instead, my stepfather showed little interest in my education, preferring that I contribute financially to our household. My mother, too, was compelled to work, leaving me to fend for myself.
But amidst the struggle, a glimmer of hope emerged. At sixteen, I spotted a signboard advertising "Free Education for Girls at Nova School" while accompanying my mother to work. Intrigued, I persuaded her to inquire further.
Inside the school, hope blossomed into possibility. They offered education for girls free of charge, promising to prepare us for the 10th grade within three years. It was a lifeline, an opportunity to break free from the cycle of poverty.
With my mother's reluctant but unwavering support, I embarked on this journey. Each day, she dropped me off before heading to work and picked me up after school, ensuring my safety and commitment to my studies.
Through sheer determination, I not only completed my 10th grade but also pursued the equivalent of O levels, finishing my 11th and 12th grades within five years. Alongside academics, the school equipped me with practical skills like computer literacy and tailoring.
Armed with knowledge and resilience, I didn't stop at graduation. I leveraged my skills to start my own tailoring business, which eventually grew to serve clients worldwide.
As I reflect on my journey, gratitude fills my heart. To Nova School and, above all, my mother, I owe everything. Their unwavering belief in me transformed adversity into opportunity, allowing me not only to change my life but also to uplift others facing similar struggles.
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