"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
9 Aug 2023
In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, Riya Philip, a 24-year-old girl hailing from the Maoist-affected Sukma district, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a job at a prestigious Health University in the United Kingdom. Riya's inspiring journey from a strife-torn region to an international career opportunity serves as a shining example of triumph over adversity.
Born and raised in the Maoist stronghold of Dornapal, located 450 kilometers south of Raipur, Riya completed her early education in Dornapal and pursued higher secondary education in Jagdalpur. Despite the financial challenges faced by her family, Riya's father, Sanju, a local school bus driver, wholeheartedly supported her ambitions.
Riya's dream of serving people in the healthcare sector, inspired by her grandmother, led her to pursue a B.Sc. in Nursing. Her family made significant sacrifices, including mortgaging their home, to ensure Riya's education. After completing her nursing course, she joined Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where she continued her studies alongside her hospital work.
Filled with determination and armed with new knowledge, Riya successfully qualified for the Occupational English Test (OET) and secured a coveted position as a professional nurse at the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in Wales, UK. Her monthly salary of Rs 1.80 lakh is a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Riya's journey serves as proof to the power of education, determination, and unwavering support. Her success story is a ray of hope for individuals facing similar challenges, proving that with dedication and resilience, dreams can be turned into reality.