From STEM Scholar to Community Changemaker, Empowered by vivo’s Women in STEM Initiative

Growing up, I knew the world I came from, and the expectations placed on me: study hard, help at home, and follow the traditional path of life. But for me, life was always about rising above and doing more than just ‘surviving’. I aspired to create something that would last – something that would leave a resounding impact on those around me. As young adults, we are often encouraged to choose a secure and safe path. For me also it started in the same ways, however, the key to a fulfilling life was creating opportunities for those who come after me and for the communities that raised me.

Raised in an environment where results and learning were deeply valued, I developed a strong belief in the power of education to transform lives. Despite many challenges, my parents always emphasized that “knowledge is the key to overcoming limitations.” This belief fuelled my fascination with science, which only grew stronger over time. I saw science as a means to solve multiple real-world problems. In a society where girls were often expected to follow traditional roles, my family’s unwavering support empowered me to forge my own path.

After completing school with a focus on Biology and Mathematics, I was determined to follow my passion and pursue a career in STEM. From the possibilities of becoming a doctor or dedicating my time to research in Biotechnology, this domain had always excited me which strengthen my focus to be part of the STEM ecosystem. Once school was over, I went on to study Biotechnology and pursued it at the prestigious NIT Raipur, where I even earned a silver medal in my stream. The area of study always encouraged to find the ‘why’ of real-life problem and think solutions with could be life changing for those in need. However, a lingering thought about the financial constraints I would implicate on my family always held me back from pursuing my higher education in the STEM fields.

In my second year at NIT, I first heard about vivo’s ‘Women in STEM’ Scholarship Program through a professor. Unsure of my chances, I applied anyway—have gone through Scholarship Process and to my delight, I was selected. That moment changed everything. The program offered more than just financial aid; it provided the mentorship, support, and the skills I needed to thrive. It allowed me to focus fully on my education and led to publishing two research papers. Additionally, I discovered my passion for social causes, participating in street plays to raise awareness about social issues. These experiences deepened my desire to make a meaningful impact and give back to society. Biotechnology served as a transformative lens for me, connecting human ingenuity with nature’s potential to drive social change and community development. By studying biotechnology, I have not only gained tools to tackle pressing global challenges but also foster innovative solutions that align technological advancements with societal needs, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future.

After completing my graduation, while most of my classmates were drawn to high-functioning corporate urban centered roles, I knew my path was different. I gravitated toward rural development and community work, where I could directly work on some pressing socio-economic issues and impact lives at the grassroots level. This career shift led me to work with a leading non-profit that engages young, educated professionals at grassroot level. With humility, empathy, and dedication, I am utilizing my skills to support individuals who might not otherwise have the means or fortune to live a stable life through various interventions.

Seeing farmers and small businesses owners specially women from rural areas thrive because of my small efforts has been deeply fulfilling. My journey from a research lab to grassroots development, has been driven by the support of programs like vivo’s Women in STEM initiative, which empowers young women to dream bigger.

As I look ahead, the next step in my journey is to establish an NGO or support center for those in need. Taking my learning from working at non-profits and communities, I firmly believe in my ability to bring about change—both in my own life and in the lives of others. With so many communities often neglected or denied help, I want to be able to be a catalyst who listens to their challenges and comes up with solutions that elevates their experience of life. vivo’s support enabled me to focus on what truly mattered: my education and personal growth as a young woman in STEM. The lessons I’ve learned, the challenges I’ve faced, and the hurdles I’ve overcome with vivo’s support have shaped me into the person I am today.

For understanding the impact of created by vivo’s Women in STEM Initiative, check out this story that highlights vivio’s commitment to young women visionaries.