Payal’s journey reflects the transformative power of non-traditional livelihoods. What once seemed impossible for a young girl from Amrapali Nagar, Nashik, became a reality due to the proper guidance, training, and opportunities. With the support of Bajaj Finserv and the tireless efforts of Yogesh Nerpagar, Assistant Director, and Shital Patil, Gender Expert at Skill4change, YouthAid Foundation. Payal was encouraged to break stereotypes and step into a profession that many believed was “not meant for women.”
In a small lane of Amrapali Nagar, on the outskirts of Nashik, thousands of dreams are born every single day. Some dreams find their way to reality, while many fade away under the weight of poverty and struggle. Yet, there are a few dreams so powerful, so deeply rooted in love and hope, that life itself refuses to let them remain unfinished. Payal’s story comes from such a place.
Her father worked as an unskilled labourer, earning very little despite putting in long hours of hard work. His hands were always rough with toil, his body tired, yet his eyes carried only one dream, for his daughter to study, to grow, and to live a better life than he ever could. Every rupee he earned was stretched thin to manage food, rent, medicines and daily needs, but he never let go of that dream for Payal. In 2024, in a tragic accident, Payal’s father passed away. Her mother has been living with a disability since childhood, walking only with the support of one leg. Her mother was heartbroken, and the burden of survival suddenly grew heavier on the family. Despite her disability, she has always been strong and never given up hope. After her husband’s death, her eyes carried only one dream – “My daughter Payal should stand on her own feet and live a dignified life.”
A mother’s dream – A daughter’s goal
Payal says, “My mother’s dream is my goal. My father worked hard all his life for us. Now it is my turn to fulfill their dream.” Life was full of struggles for Payal. Every day brought new worries—money was always short, her mother needed medicines, there were daily household expenses to manage, and on top of that, Payal’s education fees had to be paid. Still, she never gave up. After finishing all the household work for her mother each morning, Payal stepped out to look for small jobs in Nashik. Sometimes she worked as a salesgirl in a shop, and sometimes she even did domestic chores in people’s houses. But through it all, she made one promise to herself – No matter what, I will never leave my studies.
A small garden – A big dream
Payal and her mother live in a very small room. Even with limited space, Payal created a little garden in their yard. Every morning, while watering the plants, her mother tells her, “Look, Payal, this flower is just like our life – rooted in the soil, but always looking up to the sky, chasing dreams.” For Payal, this garden is a symbol of greenery and hope, representing her own blooming dreams.
A new opportunity to build confidence
The CYDA team reached Payal’s house and spoke with her mother about the importance of the non-traditional livelihood training program. Her mother discussed with her daughter. It was her mother’s support that Payal participated in 3 3-day soft skills training. This training enhanced her communication skills, boosted her confidence, and prepared her for job interviews. She excelled in hard skills training and soon, was selected to work at a petrol pump. During her interview, when she first saw the uniform of a petrol pump attendant, she felt proud and told herself, “One day this uniform will be mine.” With her newfound confidence and newly acquired skills, Payal successfully landed the job.
Challenges
On the other hand, Payal also faced many challenges. People around her, including relatives and neighbors, kept telling her not to choose this job. They said it was risky, meant only for men, and that she should look for another job. But Payal stood firm. She said, “There is no job that only men or women should do. This is what YAF has taught me, and I will continue with this job.”
The day she wore the petrol pump uniform and came back home; her mother’s eyes filled with tears of pride. Smiling, she blessed her daughter and said, “Today, your father’s dream has come true.” Today, Payal earns Rs . 11,000/- every month, takes care of her mother and continues her studies.
Sharing her message, Payal says, “I strongly suggest that young girls should first complete their education, stand on their own feet and thereafter only think about marriage and settling down in life.”
An inspiration to others
Today, Payal is not only fighting for her mother’s dream but also inspiring many other young girls in her community. Her journey shows them that even in challenging circumstances, dreams should not be left incomplete.
The importance of the girl child
Payal’s journey reminds us of a larger truth – when a girl is educated and empowered, she not only changes her own life but also uplifts her family and community. Payal is determined to continue her studies and grow further in her career. Above all, she wants her mother to live a comfortable and happy life. No dream is too small. I will keep learning, keep fighting, keep flying and fulfil my mother’s dream – admits Payal.
Investing in girls’ education and skills is one of the most powerful ways to break the cycle of poverty. Girls like Payal are not a burden; they are the backbone of progress. They carry the dreams of their parents, and when given the right chance, they turn those dreams into reality.
