Sumana Gayen

Sumana embodies a unique combination of perseverance, self-confidence and exemplary work ethic. Despite economic hardship and lack of access, she aspires to join Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and works 16 hours a day to pursue her cherished goal. Her typical day starts at 4 in the morning - she brushes up her studies for a few hours before going to school. After coming back in the afternoon she attends tuition, Abha's MPower program, and wraps up the final round of preparation for her upcoming HS exam before retiring at 11 at night. Sumana's mother is a house wife and her father is a farmer.

Their family earning is barely sufficient to support Sumana and her sister's education. Sumana did not have a smartphone and was not in a position to join the MPower program online classes. It was truly inspiring to see her face light up when she received a smart phone from Abha. Sumana is the source of inspiration because in-spite of every reason to give up her dreams, she chose to believe with a singular focus to fulfill her dreams.