When Harshitha lost her father at just 13 years old, her world changed overnight. In their small home in Pocharam village, it was just her, her younger sister, and their mother — who became both mother and father for them.
“My mom treats me like a son,” Harshitha says proudly. “I’m so lucky to have her. She’s my everything.”
Life wasn’t easy. Her mother worked as a housekeeper to make ends meet, and Harshitha often faced struggles with family members and the pressures of growing up too fast. But somewhere deep inside, she built an unshakable belief: no matter what others think, I will move forward.
In 2018, Harshitha joined Seva Bharathi’s Kishori Vikasa Kendram. “That’s when things started to change,” she smiles. At Kishori Vikasa, she found mentors who believed in her, friends who encouraged her, and a new sense of confidence. “I don’t have enough words to thank the sirs and madams. Their support; I will never forget it.”
Today, Harshitha is studying BBA second year at Andhra Mahila Sabha Arts and Science College for Women under Osmania University. And she’s not just studying; she’s winning! She was awarded the Best Player in Kabaddi at an inter-college competition, bringing home a trophy that felt like a medal for all her struggles.
In 2023, she became a Nirvahika (coordinator) at Kishori Vikasa, giving back to the very community that once lifted her up.
But Harshitha’s dreams don’t stop there. She dreams of becoming a police officer. She dreams of studying abroad. Most of all, she dreams of one day seeing the happiness and pride shine on her mother’s face. “That’s my real dream,” she says. “Everything I’m doing, it’s for her.”
Harshitha’s story reminds us: When you have a dream; and a mother’s blessing; there’s nothing you can’t do.
