I joined a pathology centre to work as a typist. It was way back, in the year ’89 – ’90. I was 13 at that time, and it was unusual for someone to work at a very young age. This is especially true in that part of India where I grew up—unless you are from the slave family.

Becoming independent was very important to me. The ‘type’ of job did not matter, as long as it was not in the cleaning and washing services. However, I was very particular about picking up formal jobs like in the education sector or clerical work.

I have been blest with a very loving and caring family. We were so close to each other, and everyone was fun-loving. Although we occasionally faced financial challenges, we never needed any outside support to see us through our days. Our parents always taught us that as long as we held on and took care of each other, everything would be all right.

At a young age, my commitment to becoming rich started to show in the things that I do. My passion for work persuaded my elder sister to teach me typing. Back then, she was working as a lecturer in a poly-technique college. At the same time, she was also a married woman with other commitments, so, understandably, my learning process took longer as I had hoped.

While I was still learning how to type, my sister reached out to me with a vacancy: a job post as a typist. I was reluctant at first to attend the interview as I have yet to complete my type-writing course. But my sister’s words motivated me. I finally decided to go to the job interview and, to my surprise, the company accepted my application.

This opportunity was the turning point in my life. It changed everything. I was able to finance my education, worked hard and improved despite experiencing some failures and setbacks.

I would always be thankful to these two very special people: my sister, Pratima, and Dr. Maglesh for confiding in me with my first opportunity and break-through towards a successful career.