In a remote tea garden community in Habiganj, where educational opportunities can be limited and social and economic challenges often shape the lives of young people, Rupali Nayek is building a different future for herself—and helping others do the same. Rupali was born with a disability. Growing up in the Surma Tea Garden, she has faced many challenges throughout her life. Economic hardship, social barriers, discrimination, and racism have made her journey difficult. For many girls in her community, continuing their education is not easy, and many are unable to pursue their studies beyond a certain level. Yet Rupali refused to let these challenges determine her future.
Despite the obstacles she encountered, she continued her education with determination and courage. Rupali has been part of ALO Society’s Education for Empowerment Project since its very beginning. Through the project, she has received financial support to continue her own education while also taking on a responsibility to support children in her community.Today, Rupali teaches 12 primary-level students through her coaching sessions. She approaches her teaching with genuine passion and a strong sense of responsibility. For her, teaching is more than simply helping children with their lessons—it is an opportunity to share what she has learned and contribute to the future of children who may face challenges similar to those she has experienced.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Last year, Rupali received the Best Sponsor Student Award in the Sylhet Region, recognizing her commitment to both her own education and the children she supports.Currently, Rupali is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS), second year. She has a clear ambition for her future: she wants to become a teacher. The Education for Empowerment Project has played an important role in helping Rupali continue her education. But her story goes beyond receiving support. She has transformed that opportunity into a responsibility to support others.
Rupali’s journey reflects the spirit of the Education for Empowerment Project: when one student receives an opportunity, that opportunity can reach many more. By continuing her education and sharing her knowledge with children in her community, Rupali is not only changing her own future—she is helping create new possibilities for others. Her story is a reminder that empowerment does not end with receiving support. It grows when people are given the opportunity to learn, believe in themselves, and give back to their communities. And Rupali is doing exactly that.