Gajendra Patil, a yoga teacher from a modest background, has always found strength in discipline and self-reliance. Based in a small town, he juggled his passion for yoga with the practical needs of everyday life. To support his family and make ends meet, he used his savings to start a small photocopier shop.

But running the business wasn’t easy. Gajendra frequently faced technical issues with the machines, and finding trustworthy and affordable professionals to repair them proved to be a constant challenge. “It’s very hard,” he says. “You don’t know who to trust, and the cost of repairs is very high.”

Despite the difficulties, he remained determined. For nearly six to seven months, Gajendra searched for affordable photocopier repair training, but every program he came across was too expensive. He wasn’t alone in this - many of his friends and colleagues who owned similar shops faced the same problems.

Then, unexpectedly, he received a call that would change everything. He was selected to undergo advanced photocopier repair training - completely free of cost and fully funded by Manal Foundation.

“I was shocked,” he says. “I had always wished for something like this, but I never thought it would actually happen.”

He quickly submitted all the required documents and enrolled in the program. For Gajendra, this opportunity meant more than just skill-building - it offered a renewed sense of purpose.

“Opportunities like this are a blessing for people like us. It helps us stand on our own feet and become part of the technical workforce.”

Although his photocopier shop is still just managing to stay afloat, Gajendra is hopeful. With the knowledge he gains through this training, he plans to invest in better machines, expand his services, and provide employment opportunities to others in his community.

“This training gave me confidence,” he says. “Now I can fix my own machines and even help others who are struggling with the same problems I once faced.”

His message to others like him is simple:
“If you get a chance to learn - take it. You never know how far it might take you.”

Gajendra’s story is a testament to resilience, and with the right support, he is paving the way toward a more secure and empowered future.