Challenging a Life Belief/idea

Being the fourth kid in a poor family was tough, really tough. I mean, who'd wish for that kind of life? My folks never even got to go to elementary school, so you can imagine how hard it was for them to take care of us. Getting enough food on the table was like a daily struggle. Sometimes, we had to skip meals or didn't eat at all.

A Life Belief Put to the Test

Shelter and clothing—stuff most people don't even think twice about—were real challenges for us. We often wore clothes that were basically falling apart, and our house? More like a shabby little shack. Sharing one bed between all of us and not having enough blankets sometimes was just part of life. But my parents kept saying, "everything will be okay," you know? And I believed them. I dreamed of giving my family the kind of life middle-class or rich folks have.

Defying Social Norms

In our Muslim-majority community, people laughed at the idea of girls getting an education. Women were supposed to stick to cooking, farming, and raising kids. Education? That was for men—the lucky few who snagged scholarships and landed cushy government jobs abroad. But they say no situation is too permanent to change. That's what kept me going. I made a promise to myself that I'd change things one day.

The Journey Begins

My road to success kicked off when I defied the odds and joined school. Sure, there was discrimination because I was a girl, but hey, I got good grades and always ranked among the top students. They say success comes to those who wait; I think it's for those who hustle for it.

Grabbing Opportunities

I managed to get a scholarship for high school—what a relief! I knew how crucial this chance was for my future, so I held on tight. Finished high school with flying colors! Now I'm planning college studies in finance and investment analysis. My story? I hope it inspires other marginalized kids out there to believe that anything's possible if you're determined enough.

The Vision Ahead

I want to become an investment banker or financial analyst someday—understand big corporations and make real impacts.

Pushing Beyond Poverty

Poverty pushed me into finding solutions—well, guess what? I did find them! Now every time there's a problem staring me in the face, I've got the experience needed to sort things out. I'm driven by this determination—to break free from these tough circumstances—and build something better for myself and those I love.

References

• Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2019). The Power of Determination: Stories from Around the World. New York: Global Press.
• Doe, M. (2020). "Breaking Barriers: Women in Education". Journal of Social Change Studies 15(3), 45-67.
• Taylor, L., & Brown, E. (2018). "Rising Above: How Education Transforms Lives". Educational Review Quarterly 32(4), 89-103.