Driven by Hope, Powered by Education
Kapil Kumar Arya is 19 years old and has been living in Gurugram with his two sisters for the past five years. Reflecting on his journey, Kapil shares, “When we came here, I was only 14 years old. My elder sister was 21, and my youngest sister was just 11. Both my parents passed away when we were very young. I don’t speak much about it, but it is part of my life, and it made me grow up early. From that time, we learned to depend on each other. My sisters are my family, my strength, and my reason to keep moving forward. We came from the Northeast of India.”
Before joining the computer classes under the Community Development Project in Chakkarpur, Gurugram, Kapil did not know how to use a computer. “Everything was new to me. Yet, I was very happy to get the chance to learn. During the three months of computer classes, I attended every single day. I did not miss even one class. I believe consistency is the key, and I wanted to give my best,” he says.
A staff member at the computer centre reflects, “We know Kapil beyond the classroom. Whenever we reach out, Kapil is there—for learning and for tree planting. This reflects not only his commitment to learning but also his strong sense of belonging to the community.”
Speaking about the changes in his life, Kapil explains, “Because of these computer classes, something very important happened. I got accepted into a college in the Commerce stream through an Open Learning programme for a three-year course. My elder sister is supporting my education by paying the fees she earns through her hard work. I still can’t believe; I am a college student now!”
Recognising the transformative power of education, Kapil has also enrolled in a course at a private university. “My days are busy, but meaningful. After my studies, I help with cooking at home. Even though the computer classes at the centre are over, I like to visit often. The camaraderie built there has had a positive influence on my life. I still work on the computer there and sometimes discuss my doubts. I continue to enjoy learning here. I have felt seen and appreciated, without any burden to prove myself. Sometimes I visit just to say hello. Due to these classes, I gained admission to college and the confidence to continue my studies. This centre is an important part of my journey, and I will always carry it with me.”
Inspired by this pivotal phase in Kapil’s life, his younger sister also joined the computer classes. Kapil concludes, “Sometimes I feel tired with my hectic schedule, but most of the time I feel proud of myself. The atmosphere at the centre gives me strength. It motivates me to keep going. I truly believe that in the end, all this hard work will lead to something good. My goal is to become successful so I can support my sisters and give back what they have given me.”
