Sonali, a 27-year-old homemaker from Maharashtra’s Satara district, had once dreamed of completing her education and becoming a police officer. She had studied until Grade 9 but had to discontinue due to family circumstances. Over the years, she got married, became a mother, and her life came to centre around her husband, two daughters, and mother-in-law. Her elder daughter, Priyal, studied in Grade 2, while her younger daughter, Yashasvi, attended an Anganwadi.

Although Sonali led a content life within her means, she often found herself longing to learn more and do something different. The dream of joining the police force still lingered, but with no clear path ahead, it seemed increasingly out of reach. What she regretted most was not being able to complete her education.

In 2023, when Pratham’s Hamara Gaon program reached her village, it marked a turning point in Sonali’s life. During a discussion on children’s education and development, something clicked within her. She began attending Mothers’ Group meetings regularly and started watching Pratham’s idea videos, which demonstrated engaging activities for children. Inspired by what she saw, Sonali actively participated in discussions and encouraged other mothers to adopt these play-based learning techniques at home.

She soon began applying these methods with her own daughters—through interactive games, worksheets, and storytelling, she helped Priyal develop a genuine interest in learning. Her enthusiasm quickly spread, inspiring other mothers to follow suit and adopt play-based learning approaches with their children.

Watching her children go to school brought back memories of her own education and the regret of not completing it. So, when she learned about Pratham’s Second Chance program, she saw an opportunity to change that. Without hesitation, she enrolled at the nearest learning centre in 2023. Balancing studies with household responsibilities was challenging, especially with her husband away at work and her mother-in-law unable to help much. At first, her attendance was irregular, but Sonali soon found a way. She began taking her daughter along to the centre and continued juggling home, children, and studies.

What set Sonali apart was her unwavering determination. She never hesitated to ask questions until she fully grasped a concept. Her perseverance paid off in 2024, when she appeared for her Grade 10 exams and secured an impressive 70.40%, ranking third in Khandala. Her achievement was recognised at the state level when she was honoured by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on the birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule.

With newfound confidence, Sonali took on a leadership role in the Mothers’ Group. She motivated other women to take charge of their children’s education and become ‘Leader Mothers’ in their communities. Beyond academics, she encouraged them to pursue self-reliance and personal growth. Her influence sparked a ripple effect—more and more mothers began taking active roles in their children’s learning journeys.

Sonali also began working as a helper in a private electronics company while continuing her studies, enrolling in Grade 11. During a career counselling session (‘Dasvi Ke Baad Kya’) held as part of her Second Chance classes, she rekindled her childhood dream of becoming a police officer. To take her first step towards this goal, Sonali enrolled in a fitness training programme conducted by Spocademy in collaboration with Pratham. This initiative aims to equip Pratham’s volunteers with the physical training required for careers in sectors, such as sports, police, and the military.

Now, Sonali is working hard on her fitness while continuing her education, determined to make her aspirations a reality.

Her story is a powerful reminder that learning has no age limit. With determination and the right support, individuals can not only transform their own lives but also uplift their communities.