From Adversity to Achievement: A Journey of Gratitude with Don Bosco Anbu Illam

My name is Sathya Moorthy, and my journey with Don Bosco began in the year 2006. Raised by my grandparents after the departure of my father and the loss of my mother when I was young, life threw its challenges at me early on. Seeking refuge with my uncle in Coimbatore, I soon found myself unwelcome, and I made the difficult decision to leave.
It was then that fate led me to the doorstep of Childline 1098, where I found not just shelter, but a new family at Don Bosco Anbu Illam. Under the guidance of Director John Darman and Administrator Fr. Ryan, I pursued my education, completing my 10th standard and then venturing into ITI for two years.
But the thirst for knowledge and a desire to achieve more led me to pursue higher secondary education. With the support of Fr. Santhan, I successfully completed my 11th and 12th standards, scoring commendably. Encouraged by Fr. Ryan, I went on to pursue a degree in B.Com CA from a college in Dindigul.
After a year of work, I found myself drawn to the field of social work, inspired by my experiences at Anbu Illam. With the help of Father, I pursued and completed my MSW at Bharathiar University. My journey then took me to the Childline project at Don Bosco Anbu Illam, and later to employment at Brookfields Mall during the challenging times of the Covid pandemic.
However, my passion for social work persisted, leading me to PSG Hospital, where I dedicated myself to serving others for over a year. It was during this time that I built strong relationships with foreign volunteers, maintaining connections even after they left India.
Through the generosity and support of one such foreign volunteer, I was offered an internship opportunity at a school in Germany. Don Bosco Anbu Illam paved the way for this incredible opportunity, nurturing and educating me every step of the way. I am forever grateful to the directors, management, and staff of Don Bosco Anbu Illam for their unwavering support and guidance.
As I find myself now in France, embarking on this internship, I am reminded of the profound impact Don Bosco Anbu Illam has had on my life. I carry with me the lessons learned and the values instilled, and I remain in touch with my roots, always welcomed with open arms whenever I visit.
To the foreign volunteers, especially Lara, who facilitated this journey to France, I am deeply thankful. It is through the kindness and opportunities provided by individuals like you that dreams are realized and futures are shaped.