My journey of perseverance and growth

I was born in a small village called Alankuppam. I would like to begin my story from the time I was in school. People tend to have fond memories of their school days, but not me. The reason? My parents, my teachers, my friends.

My parents and teachers pushed me to study, but not once did anyone bother to explain to me what I was studying – or even why. My ability to comprehend, not to mention my memory, were not really up to the mark. I have appeared for more exams learning by rote than by understanding what I was writing. This system of education did not inspire me or motivate me in any way; I remain a strictly average student.

From childhood through the end of school, my home environment posed a massive challenge for me. My father was fixated on me getting an excellent education, but he never recognised the things I enjoyed or my eagerness. To him, anything except studying was pointless and good for nothing. I loved sports, but was I any better at sports? Sadly, no. My lack of stamina ensured that I was always the first one to fall behind in any competition with friends.

Somehow, I finished school in 2015 and went to college. I had very different expectations for college; I had hoped that, unlike at school, I would be guided well, and fantasised that I would become an excellent engineering student. There was no great difference between (the teaching system in) my school and college.

I’m not blaming the education system in my country; I have met a few people who have succeeded with our system of education. I simply feel that, if only a few succeed, it’s not a successful system.

My college turned me into a shining symbol of a student lacking critical thinking, self-confidence and gumption. Was it going to be easy for such a person to find a job?

This was the time I started the lesson called Life. Unable to find employment, I faced routine humiliation from parents and others. Finding it unbearable to put up with their words, I did whatever jobs I could find. I have worked the night shift in vehicle manufacturing units, delivered food, and worked in a biscuit factory. I have been a VMC operator, worked in construction, and even in temple festivals. Every job gave me a different experience, but none of them could give me happiness. As a result, I never lasted too long at any of them.

My mind never stopped thinking one thought: if we don’t add value to our life, it is our greatest betrayal to ourselves.

Though I wanted to be an achiever, my life seemed to be drifting aimlessly, away from my dreams, and that saddened me. But what Life taught me was this – all I needed to do was try. I could achieve the life I wanted. The biggest barriers to progress had been my inability to understand what I needed to do to change my life, my workload, and my laziness.

When a friend saw my difficulties, he found me a job at his place of employment. And that is how I began my journey at Yuvabe.

Working at Yuvabe has been a life-changing experience for me. As a designer, I was able to secure a job at the company based on my ability to learn and use skills, rather than my diploma. The atmosphere at Yuvabe is one of respect and freedom, allowing me to consult with my colleagues and learn from their experiences. This was the first time I truly enjoyed my work and felt fulfilled in my career.

My boss at Yuvabe is truly unique - it's hard to understand him at times, but what sets him apart is how he treats his employees like human beings and friends. Despite his approachable nature, he is no pushover and can keep a watchful eye on everything.

During my time at Yuvabe, I've been able to expand my skill set and learn new things that have had a positive impact on my life. I've delved into acting, which has helped me better control my emotions. Additionally, I've gained proficiency in visualising, communicating, and sustainability, and even picked up yoga, which has allowed me to express myself in new ways.

But the best part of my experience at Yuvabe has been the people. My colleagues have been a constant source of support and inspiration, and I've even had the opportunity to give back by teaching local children at a school in Auroville once a week. Overall, my time at Yuvabe has been a truly transformative experience, and I'm grateful to the company for providing such a nurturing environment.

So many things I believed were impossible, became possible once I refused to give up. I have started expressing myself with confidence; I have understood that my life is meant to create something great.

K. Vigneshwaran

This article was originally published on Yuvabe’s website as part of a fundraising effort launched through the AVI USA newsletter. To learn more about Yuvabe's programme for youth empowerment, visit www.yuvabe.com.