By Pritesh Kamble
From exclusion to empowerment, from survival to success—come, let’s witness how an incredible journey unfolded! Read this story of a transgender.
Jyoti (name changed) journey is more than a tale of triumph; it is an emblem of perseverance, courage, and the indomitable human spirit. Born into a world that often fails to embrace diversity, Jyoti faced an uphill battle from an early age. Identifying as a transgender woman, she encountered resistance not just from society but even within her own home. Yet, her dream remained unwavering—to establish herself in the field of civil engineering and make a meaningful contribution to society. Despite her academic qualifications, opportunities remained elusive, and acceptance was a distant reality. This story sheds light on her journey proving that with the right support and an unyielding spirit, barriers can be broken.
Struggles and Challenges: The Harsh Reality
Jyoti’s aspirations clashed with the harsh prejudices of society. Even after obtaining her degree in civil engineering, she found doors closing before she could step through them. Employers overlooked her credentials and focused on her gender identity, denying her the opportunity to prove her worth.
The rejection extended beyond the workplace. Securing stable housing was another battle. Discriminatory landlords refused her tenancy, leaving her in a precarious position with no safe space to call home. The weight of these obstacles pushed her to the peripheries of society, forcing her into the only available means of survival—begging on the streets. The sting of invisibility, of being disregarded by a world that refused to acknowledge her potential, was a daily struggle.
The Turning Point
Amidst despair, Jyoti found a beacon of hope in CYDA an organization dedicated to empowering marginalized communities. Through business training program, Jyoti was introduced to entrepreneurship, a pathway she had never previously considered.
The program equipped her with critical skills in business management, market strategies, and financial planning. More than just technical knowledge, the organization provided her with a support network—people who saw her potential, who believed in her capabilities beyond societal biases. With the guidance of mentors and access to seed funding of Rs.10,000/- Jyoti was ready to take control of her destiny.
From Vision to Reality
With a grant, Jyoti ventured into the construction material supply business, a domain close to her heart as a civil engineering enthusiast. The initial days were filled with challenges—establishing supplier connections, gaining client trust, and navigating an industry that had rarely seen entrepreneurs from the transgender community.
However, her determination was relentless. She leveraged her technical knowledge to offer quality materials, ensuring customer satisfaction and building credibility. She engaged herself in tailoring work, earning approximately Rs.8,000 per month. She is also saving money, as she wants to become a fashion designer in the future. Slowly but surely, her business gained traction. What once seemed impossible was now a thriving venture, providing her not just financial independence but also a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Empowering Others
Jyoti’s success did not stop at personal achievement. She recognized the struggles of others within the transgender community—talented, hardworking individuals denied opportunities solely because of societal biases. Determined to create a change, she expanded her business to employ and train members of her community, providing them with dignified work and a stable income.
Her venture became more than just a business; it became a platform for empowerment, an initiative that challenged stereotypes and paved the way for inclusivity in the workforce. Through her efforts, she built a livelihood for herself and also uplifted others, proving that economic empowerment can be a transformative force for marginalized communities.
A Lesson in Determination
Jyoti’s story holds profound relevance for today’s youth. In an era where challenges—be it economic, societal, or personal—often feel insurmountable, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and resourcefulness can turn adversity into opportunity.
Her experience highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the courage to seek alternative paths when conventional routes fail. For young individuals facing societal constraints or personal hurdles, Jyoti’s success underscores that true potential is never limited by external perceptions. With the right support and an unwavering belief in oneself, the impossible can become possible.
Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams
Jyoti is not just a businesswoman; she is a change maker, a role model, and an inspiration. Her journey is proof that with access to opportunities, unwavering determination, and the right support system, any obstacle can be conquered. Her success is not merely a personal victory but a collective triumph against societal constraints. It is a testament to the fact that every individual, regardless of their background or identity, deserves a chance to dream, to work, and to succeed.
As we reflect on her story, let it serve as a reminder that change begins with acceptance, empowerment, and the courage to believe in one’s own potential. Jyoti’s story is more than an individual’s triumph—it is a movement, a revolution in the making. And it invites us all to be a part of a more inclusive, compassionate, and opportunity-driven society.
This transformation would not have been possible without the support of organizations and individuals dedicated to fostering inclusion. Special recognition goes to United Way Hyderabad.
(the author is the unit head, inclusion projects at CYDA)
