In the heart of Chiradpada, a small village in rural Thane, a powerful story of determination and transformation is quietly unfolding. Yogesh, a second-year B.Com student at K.M. Agarwal College, is more than just a student—he is a symbol of what can be achieved when talent is nurtured, dreams are supported, and communities come together to uplift their own. His journey, driven by personal resilience and the steadfast support of Rajani Foundation India, is a shining example of hope and possibility.
Coming from a family of modest farmers, Yogesh grew up in a home where education was a luxury, not a given. Financial hardship was a constant shadow, threatening to curtail his academic dreams. But even in the face of adversity, Yogesh’s passion for learning burned bright. His early years were marked by struggle, but also by a quiet resolve to change his destiny.
That resolve found a lifeline when, in the 5th grade, Yogesh crossed paths with Rajani Foundation India. The organization recognized his potential and stepped in with vital support—covering educational expenses, providing books and school supplies, and offering mentorship that extended far beyond the classroom. This support was more than financial—it was deeply personal. The Foundation became a source of belief and encouragement, offering the kind of emotional strength that would become the foundation of Yogesh’s remarkable rise.
Today, Yogesh stands as a dual achiever—excelling in academics and making waves in sports. As a committed Kabaddi player, he has represented his college and state with pride, and now gears up to represent India on the international stage in Nepal, June 2025. Balancing the demands of competitive sports with academic rigor is no small feat, but Yogesh does so with discipline and focus. His parents, ever supportive of his sporting ambitions, now look on with pride as he prepares to carry the Indian flag beyond borders.
The influence of Rajani Foundation India on Yogesh’s journey has been transformative. With their guidance, he began to dream bigger. Today, his goal is to become a Chartered Accountant—a path he now follows with clear intent and unwavering commitment. He is aware that his journey might have ended prematurely without the Foundation’s timely support, and he expresses deep gratitude for the belief they placed in him when few others did.
“I owe so much to the Rajani Foundation. They not only supported my studies but made me believe in myself. That belief changed everything,” says Yogesh. His message to donors and supporters is simple but powerful: “Your help changes lives.”
More than just a student and an athlete, Yogesh is becoming a changemaker. He has grown into a thoughtful and socially aware young man who sees education as a tool for both personal growth and community development. He actively uses digital platforms to build a professional identity and expand his network, and he is determined to give back—supporting other underprivileged students and working to uplift tribal communities through mentorship and advocacy.
To his peers, Yogesh offers this motivating advice:
“The age from 18 to 25 is your golden period. Don’t let it slip away. This is your time to dream, build, and succeed. Grab every opportunity and never stop striving.”
Yogesh’s journey is not just about personal success—it is a powerful reminder of what can happen when opportunity meets dedication. It exemplifies how organizations like Rajani Foundation India are not just filling gaps in the system but actively building bridges to brighter futures.
In Yogesh, we see the power of hope and hard work. In the Rajani Foundation India, we see the lasting impact of belief in action. Together, they offer a story that doesn’t just inspire—it leads the way forward for countless others.
-Bhumika Paraye
