15 Jan From Struggle to Success: Manisha’s Journey of Education & Empowerment
“From Struggle to Success, fueled by sacrifice & perseverance. Inspiring dreams, empowering lives.”
I have always believed that dreams can become a reality when they are backed by hard work, dedication, and the willingness to overcome challenges. My journey is a testament to the strength that comes from struggle and the power of perseverance. Growing up in a middle-class farming family, life was not easy. Financial struggles were constant, but education was our only way out, the only path that offered the hope of a better future. My parents, though burdened by their own hardships, worked tirelessly to provide us with the opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices became the foundation upon which my dreams were built.
From a very young age, my brother and I were sent away from our parents to study. It was a difficult decision, one that came with its share of challenges. We were young and homesick, but we found strength in each other. We supported one another in every way possible, knowing that the sacrifices we were making now would lead to something bigger and better in the future. Our parents, who were our pillars of support, sacrificed their own comforts and desires to ensure we had the chance to fulfill our potential. They gave up many things, including time with us, so that we could focus on our studies. It was a tough but necessary choice for the future they envisioned for us.
Over the years, I saw my parents’ sacrifices bearing fruit. Through hard work and dedication, I was able to achieve something extraordinary—something I could never have imagined when I first began my journey: I earned my Ph.D. The pride and joy I felt were beyond measure, but the honor was not mine alone. This achievement was a reflection of the sacrifices my family made and the support I received along the way. I was the first girl in my family, my village, and even in neighboring villages to pursue such a high level of education. This accomplishment was not just personal; it became a symbol of what determination and perseverance could achieve.
My academic journey was marked by several milestones, including two gold medals—symbols of my hard work, resilience, and commitment. These medals were not just accolades; they represented years of struggle, sacrifices, and moments of self-doubt that I overcame. When my family heard the news of my achievements and my new role as a Consultant in Hyderabad, their joy was indescribable. The happiness in their eyes was the result of their years of sacrifice and their unwavering belief in me. Their hard work was now paying off. It wasn’t just my success—it was the success of my entire family. My brother, too, had achieved something remarkable—he landed a government job at a bank. Together, we became a living testament to the power of education and hard work.
As I settled into my new role in Hyderabad, I faced new challenges. Life in a new city, far from home, was an adjustment, but the determination that had fueled my journey so far kept me going. I worked tirelessly, often facing challenges that pushed me to my limits. But the thought of making my family proud and honoring their sacrifices kept me motivated. I spent two years in Hyderabad, focusing on my career and growing professionally. However, life had another plan for me. After dedicating myself to my career for two years, I returned to my hometown and married the love of my life. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one that brought fulfillment in unexpected ways.
My journey took another unexpected but deeply fulfilling turn when I ventured into the social development sector. Over the past year, I’ve dedicated myself to the healthcare domain, focusing specifically on women’s cancers. This has been a turning point for me. I found a new purpose in advocating for women’s health, particularly in the context of early detection and prevention. As part of CAPED, I have been working tirelessly to break down the barriers that exist in women’s healthcare. We face a multitude of challenges, from limited access to resources to deeply ingrained socio-cultural stigmas. But I believe in the power of education and awareness. By providing women with the information they need, we can empower them to take control of their health and well-being.
As the Communications Manager at CAPED, I am privileged to be part of an organization that is making a tangible difference in people’s lives. My role allows me to bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, ensuring that vital healthcare information reaches those who need it most. This work has been both challenging and rewarding, offering me invaluable insights into the importance of effective communication in health and development. I am proud to be part of a team that is working towards making India ‘Cervical Cancer Mukt Bharat’ and improving overall health outcomes for women.
Looking back at my journey, I realize that my story is one of many. There are countless others who have faced similar struggles, worked tirelessly, and made sacrifices for a better future. I have learned that success is not just about achieving personal goals, but about lifting others as you rise. As I continue my work in the healthcare domain, I am determined to use my experiences to inspire others and create a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most. I believe that by empowering women, we can create a ripple effect that will transform communities and create a better future for all.
“From struggle to success, fueled by sacrifice & perseverance. Inspiring dreams, empowering lives.”
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Dr. Manisha Ohlan, Ph.D.
Communications Manager, CAPED