Like many young girls from underserved communities, Anjali faced numerous challenges before finding the support she needed to thrive. Coming from a semi-urban family of four, her father was the sole breadwinner, earning a modest INR 10,000 per month as a security guard. Her mother was a homemaker, and her older siblings were still studying. As the youngest in the family, Anjali was deeply affected by their financial struggles and was determined to help. However, she was uncertain about which career path to pursue and faced difficulties securing a good job opportunity.
Anjali's situation became dire as she faced multiple rejections and even unethical demands from employers in her job search. Her parents, understandably cautious, were hesitant to let her accept any job offers, fearing fraud and exploitation. Desperate for a way forward, Anjali learned about the Magic Bus India Foundation’s Livelihood Programme during a door-to-door mobilisation campaign.
Although excited about the opportunity, Anjali initially had reservations about the programme's job placement support. To ease her concerns, the Magic Bus team invited her to observe a soft-launched batch and connected her with past participants who had successfully secured employment. Reassured by their experiences, Anjali enrolled in the Livelihood Programme, hopeful that this would be the turning point she needed.
Initially, Anjali struggled with communication and lacked the confidence to present herself. She was timid, reserved, and burdened by self-doubt. However, with time and perseverance, she gradually opened up and made small but meaningful strides in her personal growth. Her commitment to creatively completing assignments and encouraging her peers was proof of her determination to improve. Over time, Anjali found her voice, gained confidence, and became an active contributor during the sessions.
Upon completing the programme, Anjali secured a position as an Assistant Coordinator with Allianze Partner. This accomplishment felt like a dream come true after overcoming so many obstacles.
Just 25 days into her new job, Anjali returned to the Magic Bus centre to express her gratitude to the team. She shared her journey with the current participants and offered advice on navigating workplace challenges.
Today, Anjali's family enjoys a stable income, and she is proud to contribute significantly to their well-being. Her family is overjoyed at her progress, and Anjali credits the Magic Bus India Foundation for transforming her life and career. Reflecting on her journey, she says, "The first step is the hardest to take, but once you do, everything becomes easier. I took that first step by joining the Magic Bus India Foundation, and now I’m able to support not only myself but my family as well."
Her story has inspired many other youths in her community, demonstrating that with dedication and the right support, no challenge is too big to overcome and success is always within reach.