In a small village in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district, Veluduri Bhavani’s journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of education. Born in 1994, Bhavani was forced to drop out of school after Grade 9 due to financial hardships. She got married in 2015 to Yesu Babu, a daily wage labourer with inconsistent income. The financial instability made it hard for Bhavani to raise their two children, Manoj (Grade 3) and Vasnavi (5 years old). Despite their struggles, she remained determined to provide their children with opportunities she never had.

In 2022, Pratham launched its community activities in Bhavani’s village, introducing a learning camp at a school and forming Mothers’ Groups. Eager to support her children’s education, she joined the Mothers’ Group and quickly became an active participant. She led activities such as rhymes, storytelling, and crafts that enhanced her children’s learning and also connected with other mothers, offering them guidance and encouraging them to participate in their children’s learning. Bhavani’s efforts paid off—her son Manoj, then in Grade 1, developed strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

As Bhavani grew confident in her role within Mothers’ Group, Pratham’s Second Chance program reached her village, offering her an opportunity to complete her Grade 10. Balancing household responsibilities, along with her leadership role in the Mothers’ Group and studies was challenging but Bhavani stayed determined. Her husband also supported her by taking on household chores, allowing her the time to attend classes and focus on her education. 

In 2023, Bhavani achieved a significant milestone by clearing her Grade 10 exams on her first attempt, scoring 51.8 percent. Soon after, she secured a job as a sales executive at a nearby supermarket, bringing much-needed financial stability to her family. Her success inspired other women in the community to pursue education and actively participate in their children’s learning. Reflecting on her journey, Bhavani said, “I have always dreamed of giving my children a better life, but I never knew that through education, I could also transform my own.”

Today, Bhavani continues to lead and support activities in her village. Her son Manoj thrives in the children’s club, engaging in creative and academic activities with other children, while she remains a beacon of hope for her community. Bhavani’s journey showcases the profound impact that education and community support can have in transforming lives by opening doors to new opportunities.