Soumya, a student of Bachelor of Computer Applications from Bengaluru, always believed her future would follow a simple path. Her father ran a modest business, her mother cared for the home, and life, though not extravagant, was stable. But in one moment, everything changed. Her father passed away. 

With the family’s only source of income gone, Soumya’s mother began working in a printing press, earning just ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 a month. Her elder brother took up a part-time job to pay for his education. And Soumya, who had just stepped into college, faced the harsh reality of financing her own studies. 

“I knew I could only continue college if I found a way to pay for it myself,” she says. 

Through a distant relative, she learned about Manal Foundation and applied for a scholarship. The support she received helped her clear her fees and, more importantly, gave her peace of mind. She could now focus on her studies. 

“Manal Foundation’s help felt like a gift from the universe,” she says. “In that moment, I felt seen, supported, and hopeful.” 

Soumya is passionate about becoming a software engineer. She dreams of building a successful career but also of travelling the world and experiencing global cultures through food. But her most heartfelt goal is to care for her mother, who she describes as her greatest strength. 

“I want to take care of my mother like a baby,” she says. “She was thrown into a storm and never complained. Now it’s my turn to give her the life she deserves.” 

She still remembers the ease of life before her father’s passing and the shock of how quickly things changed. But today, her struggles have shaped her purpose. 

She has a message for other students: 
“Never give up. Face your situation. Face your fear. You don’t need to have everything figured out - just the courage to take the next step.” 

With support from Manal Foundation, Soumya is continuing her education with confidence. Her steady efforts are helping her move forward, and her story encourages others facing similar challenges.