FROM A VULNERABLE CHILD TO A SUCCESSFUL PROFESSIONAL

FROM A VULNERABLE CHILD TO A SUCCESSFUL PROFESSIONAL
A Journey of Hope, Care and Transformation

Name Changed: “Arun”

An inspiring story from Don Bosco Anbu Illam, Coimbatore

Arun’s journey is a powerful example of how timely care, education, guidance and unconditional support can transform the life of a vulnerable child.

Arun lost his mother when he was just one year old. His father was working in Mumbai and regularly sent money to his brother, who was taking care of Arun and supporting his education. However, after his father unexpectedly passed away due to a heart attack, the financial support stopped. Without his father’s support, Arun’s uncle found it increasingly difficult to care for him. As a result, Arun faced neglect and ill-treatment.

Unable to bear the situation, nine-year-old Arun ran away from home. In 1999, he was found alone on the streets by the Child Helpline 1098 team, who intervened and ensured that he received immediate care and protection. He was subsequently brought to Don Bosco Anbu Illam, Coimbatore, where he found a safe and caring environment.

At Don Bosco Anbu Illam, Arun was welcomed with care, affection and dignity. He was enrolled in school and given the opportunity to continue his education. He studied up to Class XI. However, at this stage, he lost interest in continuing his studies and was considering dropping out.

The Directors and Fathers who cared for him did not give up on him. Recognising his abilities and potential, they encouraged him to continue his education. With their guidance and support, Arun was transferred to Don Bosco, Kotagiri, where he received a fresh opportunity to pursue his studies.

The Director at Kotagiri encouraged Arun to complete Class XII, motivating him to look beyond his immediate difficulties and work towards a better future. With determination and the continued support of his mentors, Arun successfully completed his Class XII.

His educational journey continued at the Don Bosco Community College, Kotagiri, where he pursued a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA). His perseverance and growing interest in computers helped him successfully complete his degree.

After completing his studies, in 2013, Arun moved to Chennai and worked with Salesian Arumbu Publication at Don Bosco, Chennai, for a year. He subsequently worked for several years in graphic designing and advertising agencies, gaining valuable professional experience and developing his skills.

His professional journey later took him to Bengaluru, where he secured an opportunity with KPMG, a global professional services organisation. His dedication and professional abilities opened further opportunities for him. He was sent to the United Kingdom for training and later pursued an Interactive Media Designing course in Canada. Following his studies and training, he secured employment in Canada and began building an independent professional life there.

From a nine-year-old child found alone on the streets in 1999, Arun had grown into a confident and independent professional living and working in another country.

Looking Back with Gratitude

Looking back on his journey, Arun gratefully remembers the people who stood beside him during the most difficult years of his childhood. He acknowledges that the care, guidance and encouragement he received from the Fathers and staff of Don Bosco Anbu Illam, Coimbatore, played an important role in shaping his future.

He particularly remembers the life-coping skills and values he learned during his years of schooling and institutional care. These skills helped him face challenges, make responsible decisions, adapt to different situations and lead a dignified and independent life.

FROM PROTECTION TO POSSIBILITY

Arun’s story is not merely a story of academic achievement or professional success. It is a story of second chances, perseverance and transformation.

A child who once faced loss, neglect and vulnerability was given protection.

A child who was once ready to discontinue his education was encouraged to continue.

A young person who once needed care and guidance eventually became capable of building an independent life.

His journey reminds us that every child has potential, even when difficult circumstances make that potential difficult to see. Sometimes, all a child needs is a safe place, a caring adult, encouragement and someone who refuses to give up on them.

From the streets of Coimbatore to a professional life in Canada, Arun’s journey stands as a testimony to the transformative power of care, education, guidance and hope.

“The care I received at Don Bosco Anbu Illam and the guidance of the Fathers helped me to lead a decent life. The life-coping skills I learned during my schooling have been very useful throughout my life.”

— Arun (Name Changed)