By Shambhavi Singh: This incredible story of now 19-years-old Jyoti begins in Patna. Jyoti was abandoned at the railway station as a small child but was adopted by a beggar couple. She began begging with the beggar couple who had adopted her as a child. She started picking up garbage on several occasions where she earned a small amount of money.
However, the young girl always wanted to further her studies. Her youth was spent begging, yet her ambition to get an education was ever-present.
When the Patna district government agreed to help her through the volunteer organisation Rambo Foundation, she saw a light of hope in her life. After joining the Rambo Foundation, she resumed her education and passed her matriculation exam.
She also attended the Upendra Maharathi Institute to study Madhubani art. Because of her hard work and persistence, she was able to land a job as a cafeteria manager. Jyoti has finished her primary education and presently works throughout the day at a café that she owns and studies in her leisure time. She wants to work in marketing and is continuing her education through distance learning.
Jyoti’s inspiring story is one amongst many that reminds us that every child deserves to realise their dreams, to receive an education, and to live a life of pride and dignity.