Hrithik: Turning challenges into opportunities
Studying, working, and supporting his family without giving up on building his own future
Hrithik was part of Yashodhara Home project from a very young age, along with his brother Rohan, and later joined the Young Promises project, which supports the education of vulnerable youth in Pune, India.
Hrithik lived with his mother and younger brother. His mother worked as a maid and was the family’s sole source of income, so covering her children’s educational expenses and daily needs involved making a tremendous effort.
Despite the hardships, Hrithik managed to pursue a degree in Hotel Management. But as he was nearing the end of his studies, an unexpected obstacle arose: the COVID-19 pandemic delayed his final exams and created a period of uncertainty about his future.
Hrithik then decided to get a job to help support his family. He found work at a masala factory, where he packaged products while continuing his studies.
At the same time, he developed a keen interest in baking. He learned to make a wide variety of pastries and discovered that baking offered him a way to express his creativity and deepen his passion for the catering trade.
The challenges were not only financial. The family also dealt with difficulties related to his mother’s health. Hrithik and his brother made sure she received the treatment and medical care she needed, supporting her throughout a process in which her condition gradually improved.
Amid it all, Hrithik kept looking forward. The support he received through Young Promises allowed him to continue his education and build his confidence during a particularly difficult time. But it was his hard work, sense of responsibility, and determination that enabled him to keep moving toward a life with greater opportunities.
His story reminds us that behind every young person who manages to finish their studies, there is much more than just grades. There may be a mother to support, a job to juggle, family issues to face, and moments when giving up seems like the easiest option.
And there may also be someone who decides to believe in that young person and help them keep going.
Help us support the next “Young Promise”
At Asha-Kiran, we don’t want financial challenges to determine how far a young person can go. Through the “Young Promises” program, we help vulnerable youngsters continue their education and move toward an independent life.
By becoming a member of Asha-Kiran, you help us support them in this journey. Your contribution becomes education, guidance, and opportunities for young people who are doing everything they can to build their own future.
We can’t walk the path for them. But we can help ensure they have the chance to walk it themselves.