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Meet the inspiring individuals whose journeys have been powered by grit, courage, and the support of the SMART centre at DBM India in Mumbai, one of many skill development centres under Tech Mahindra Foundation's flagship program, SMART. Each story reflects the resilience of those who dared to dream and the dedication of those who supported them along the way.

From overcoming personal challenges to discovering newfound confidence and career paths, these individuals are creating brighter futures not just for themselves, but also for their families and communities. At Mahindra, we drive positive change and create value in our communities by rising for a more equal world and being future ready. Join us as we share these incredible stories of transformation—journeys from uncertainty to confidence, resilience, and independence. This is Rise in action!

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

IMPACT STORY 1

 

 

Name: Aditee Subhash Gupta

Age: 19

Designation: Travel Consultant

Social Media: Instagram Handle

I am Aditee Gupta, 19, from Khar East, Mumbai. Growing up, I was always a bit shy, lacking the confidence to speak up, especially around strangers. My dad’s a driver, my mom a homemaker, and though I dreamed big, financial struggles meant I had to drop out of 12th grade. I was terrified that my younger sisters might also have to give up their dreams. I knew I wanted to help my family but felt stuck, with no idea how to start.

That’s when someone told me about Tech Mahindra Foundation’s SMART centre in Khar, in partnership with DBM India. The journey wasn’t just about learning skills—it was about transformation. Through this program, I learned how to communicate clearly, present myself confidently, and even discovered the importance of self-grooming. Today, I’m proud to work as a Travel Consultant at Etrav Tech Limited.

Getting my first salary was surreal. I used it to plan a special anniversary celebration for my parents, and seeing the pride in their eyes was unforgettable. This program didn’t just give me a job; it gave me a new belief in myself. Now, I dream of becoming a pilot or even pursuing the UPSC. My journey has only just begun, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.”

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

 

IMPACT STORY 2

 

 

Name: Anam Qureshi

Age: 20

Designation: Customer Support Executive

Social Media: Instagram Handle

I’m Anam Qureshi, 20, from Santacruz West, Mumbai, and I work as a Customer Support Executive at Etrav Tech Limited. But just a year ago, my life looked very different. Living with my parents and elder brother, I struggled with confidence and was hesitant to speak up, especially around new people. I had no idea how much self-grooming and clear communication mattered.

Then I came across Tech Mahindra Foundation’s SMART program through social media. It was a turning point. Not only did the program equip me with skills for the job, but it also showed me how to present myself with confidence and communicate effectively. Today, I proudly contribute my salary to support my family, and my first pay check went towards a special ring for my mom. Watching her wear it with pride fills me with happiness.

As a former science student, I’m now dreaming even bigger—I want to explore a career in radiography. This program didn’t just open a door; it gave me the courage to walk through it. The journey has just begun, and I’m excited for what’s next.

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

IMPACT STORY 3

 

 

Name: Neha Singh

Age: 24

Designation: Banking Customer Support

Social Media: Instagram Handle , LinkedIn Handle

I’m Neha Singh, 24, and I work at Teleperformance, supporting HSBC Banking. Growing up in a small chawl in Bandra West, Mumbai, I’d always dreamed of more, but life’s challenges kept piling up, especially during the pandemic. I felt lost, my confidence at an all-time low, and the future looked uncertain.

That’s when a social worker told me about Tech Mahindra Foundation’s SMART program, and everything changed. Through the course, I learned not only essential job skills but also the importance of self-presentation, effective communication, and self-belief. Each lesson helped me see myself in a new light, filling me with the confidence I’d been missing. Living with my parents and three sisters, I wanted to share my father’s burden, and landing my current job was a proud moment for all of us.

Now, I’m dreaming even bigger. I want to work in a travel agency one day and explore the world. Thanks to the SMART program, I’m on a path I never thought possible, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me!

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

 

IMPACT STORY 4

 

Name: Shweta Dube

Age: 22

Designation: Business Executive - Development

Social Media: Instagram Handle , LinkedIn Handle

I’m Shweta Dube, 22, and today I’m proud to work at PhonePe as a Business Executive Development professional. Growing up with just my father, who raised me as a single parent, I faced a lot of anxiety and struggled with speaking up or even imagining myself in a professional setting.

When I first heard about the SMART program by Tech Mahindra Foundation, I was hesitant, unsure if I could handle it. But from the moment I joined, the supportive trainers and positive environment shifted something within me. I learned how to communicate with confidence, present myself, and tackle my anxiety head-on. Completing the course was a milestone, but finding a job wasn’t easy—I faced several rejections before finally securing my position at PhonePe. Today, I’m proud to be one of the highest-paid in my batch.

Now, my dreams are growing bigger. My next goal is to become a cabin crew member and see the world. The SMART program didn’t just give me skills; it taught me to believe in myself and set my sights high.

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

 

 

IMPACT STORY 5

Please note: Ruqaiya was not comfortable with taking a photo, so we are sharing only her story.

 

Name: Ruqaiya Shaikh

Age: 26

Designation: Social Worker (DBM India)

Seven years ago, I was a student at DBM India, where I completed a 3-month MSCIT course with big dreams, but little idea of what life would bring. After marriage and becoming a mother, I began feeling the need for independence—for myself and for my family. I decided to reach out to DBM India, hoping to rekindle that spark. They offered me a role, but it involved fieldwork, which I was initially uneasy about. However, with the encouragement of a supportive team, I pushed through my discomfort, building confidence and learning crucial skills in mobilization and communication.

I soon developed a new approach to enrolments, moving beyond door-to-door visits and reaching out through personal connections. It allowed me to help people who truly needed it. This experience gave me a window into the unique struggles that communities face and made me realize just how meaningful my contributions could be.

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

 

IMPACT STORY 6

 

 

Name: Daeevessh Jaisar

Age: 48

Designation: Manager – Career Training & Placement

"I’m Daeevessh Jaisar, 48, and I’m currently the Manager of Career Training and Placement at a Tech Mahindra Foundation SMART centre in partnership with DBM India. Born and raised in Mumbai, I hold an MBA in HR and bring over 23 years of experience to my role, including 15 years in training with organizations like UpGrad, Topper Tech, Equifax, and Vodafone. My guiding mantra for job seekers has always been: 'Don’t just look for a job—look for a career.'

At the SMART centre, I strive to empower individuals by preparing them not just for interviews but for the real-world challenges they’ll face in building lasting careers. My focus is on helping candidates develop critical thinking, effective communication, and the resilience needed to navigate today’s job market. Through diverse job opportunities and ongoing counselling, I guide them to uncover their strengths and pursue paths that truly align with their potential.

What drives me most is witnessing these individuals transform from a place of uncertainty to one of confidence. In my downtime, I enjoy watching movies, listening to music, and writing fiction. I recently published my first book, The Mantra: Mystery on Mayahatti Mountains, now available on Amazon.

#SheIsOnTheRise #TechMahindraFoundation #SMARTProgram #KaabilProgramme #KaabilBanoJobReady #TMFImpact #RiseForAMoreEqualWorld

 

IMPACT STORY 7

 

 

Name: Sangeeta Misal

Age: 30

Designation: Soft Skills Trainer

I live in Mumbai, with my husband, daughter, and mother, and teaching has always been woven into the fabric of my life. My journey started young—as a Sunday School teacher at just 12 years old, I felt an early pull towards helping others grow. After completing my BSc in IT and working in an IT company, I realized something vital was missing. It was my brother’s encouragement that led me to pursue a Master’s in Social Work (MSW), a path that opened doors to working with communities I felt deeply connected to.

After spending 2.5 years as an English and soft skills trainer with Shield Foundation, I took a break to care for my daughter. When I was ready to step back into the professional world, I found Tech Mahindra Foundation and DBM India, and for over two years now, I’ve had the privilege of working as a soft skills trainer in a TMF SMART centre.

The most fulfilling part of my job is the bond I create with my students and the opportunity to be a positive force in their lives. There’s something profoundly rewarding about seeing them grow and build confidence, and in those moments, I find my true purpose and joy."