Sahadev grew up in a middle-class farming family, where hard work and determination were deep-rooted in his upbringing. From a young age, he understood the value of effort and determination as he watched his family toil to make ends meet. After completing grade 12, he knew that financial stability was crucial, both for himself and his family. He moved to Pune, seeking opportunities, and started his career as a massage therapist in a local spa.
At the spa, Sahadev gained valuable experience and honed his skills in massage therapy. With his natural ability to connect with people, he provided exceptional service to his clients. However, despite his dedication and efforts, his income barely covered his basic needs. This financial instability weighed heavily on him, and his dreams of building something bigger seemed far out of reach. Yet, the dream of owning a business and creating a better future for himself persisted—a dream that needed a strong foundation and support to take shape.
Overcoming Challenges and Financial Struggles
Life was far from easy for Sahadev. Lack of funds became his greatest obstacle, forcing him to rely on small loans from friends. But financial challenges were not the only hurdle—he lacked business knowledge and guidance, which made the path forward seem daunting.
“I still remember those early days,” Sahadev recalls. “People were hesitant to invite me into their homes or offices. I knew I had to earn their trust, and the only way to do that was to prove my worth with every interaction.”
Despite these hardships, he never let his circumstances define his potential. Sahadev’s determination to overcome challenges kept him moving forward, even when the odds seemed stacked against him.
A Life-Changing Opportunity with CYDA
In 2023, Sahadev’s life took a transformative turn when a friend introduced him to CYDA (Centre for Youth Development and Activities). For Sahadev, it was more than an organization—it was a beacon of hope. CYDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program offered him the guidance and tools he desperately needed to bring his dreams to life.
Through CYDA, Sahadev learned invaluable lessons in financial literacy and market strategies. For the first time, he understood how to calculate profits and losses, manage budgets effectively, and build strong customer relationships. These skills became the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial journey, giving him the confidence to take his first big leap.
Inspired and equipped with newfound knowledge, Sahadev launched his own massage therapy business in Pune. He provided therapeutic services in homes, offices, and other locations, fitting his offerings to meet the unique needs of each client. Recognizing the demand for high-quality food products, he diversified his business by introducing ready-to-eat products such as kheer and faluda, ensuring they were always available for his customers. CYDA’s intervention had not only shaped his skills but also ignited a belief in his own potential, fueling his determination to succeed.
Gradual Success and Growth
A pivotal moment in Sahadev’s journey was the Rs.10,000/- grant he received from CYDA. With this financial support, he purchased essential tools for his business, including oils, towels, and a portable massage table. Additionally, he invested his own savings to expand his offerings and reach a broader client base.
The initial days were challenging, but Sahadev’s consistency and commitment to quality service began to pay off. His earnings, which once stood at Rs.6,000/- per month, steadily increased to Rs.10,000/-. With a growing client base and an unwavering work ethic, he established himself as a successful entrepreneur.
Reflecting on his journey, Sahadev says, “CYDA provided not just financial support but also the knowledge and confidence to succeed. The key to my success was consistency, quality service, and the trust I built with my clients. Every obstacle taught me something valuable, and every small victory gave me the courage to aim higher.”
A Message of Hope and Determination
Today, Sahadev stands as a testament to the power of determination and the right support. His story is not just about overcoming challenges—it is about the courage to dream big and the resilience to turn those dreams into reality.
“My story is proof that with hard work, determination, and the right support, dreams can come true. Success is never handed to you—it’s earned,” Sahadev emphasizes with conviction. “
From a middle-class farming family to a thriving entrepreneur, Sahadev’s journey reflects the transformative impact of CYDA’s intervention. His story inspires countless young people, showing them that no matter how daunting the challenges, the right guidance and unwavering determination can pave the way to success.
(This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation Officer at CYDA)
