Follow us on
January 01, 2024 | Sunil Gupta Team: ABC KEF Palghar

From Street Vendor to Program Manager: A Journey of Transformation

Hey there, I'm thrilled to share my journey—a rollercoaster ride of challenges, growth, and amazing experiences. Let me take you back to when I started—a street vendor selling tomatoes, hustling through the daily grind. Life took a turn when I pursued my Masters in Hindi Literature while navigating the streets. Fast forward to joining the Piramal Foundation as a Bath_7 Gandhi fellow—what a whirlwind that was!

During these nine incredible years, I encountered some profound concepts that reshaped my outlook. Ever heard of 'Self-Awareness,' 'Reflection,' 'Non-Violent Communication,' or 'Influence without Authority'? These phrases rocked my world, pushing me to see change as a personal journey.

It wasn't a walk in the park, though. Learning to change from within was tough. But you know what made it easier? The incredible support from my fellow peers and seniors. They taught me to look inwards, identify communication gaps, and rebuild my confidence. Vipassana meditation became my daily ritual, and mastering Non-Violent Communication became my superpower. Failing and relearning? Oh yes, I've been there, countless times.

Shoutout to my mentors—PM Janardhan Bhai, PD Nisha Ji, and CTM Arun Ji. They saw potential in me, nudged me to step up, and believed in my capabilities. With their guidance, I became a key player in the team, graduating five batches and orchestrating events that I once could only dream of—Google Read Aloud App Launch by Mr. Sunder Pichai, and a music event by A.R Rahman Foundation, among others.

Palghar was a turning point. The team and I delivered outstanding results that caught the attention of both IAS officers in the district. That moment when Mr. Gauranga Prabhu Director GEV appreciated our team in front of Mr. Ajay Piramal during his visit to Palghar Ashram school—unforgettable!

Reflecting on this whirlwind of change, I realized it's about thinking big and inclusivity at every step. 'Seva Bhav'—the spirit of selfless service—is now ingrained in my approach to serving our nation.

My story isn't just about personal triumph. It's about the power of self-awareness, perseverance, and the unwavering support of an incredible community that fosters change from within.

So here I am, grateful to the Piramal family for giving me a platform to grow, learn, and serve. This journey has taught me that change begins with us, and I'm proud to keep walking this path of making a difference, one step at a time.

TAGS

Aspirational Bharat Collaborative

SHARE