Nothing gives me hope like waking up early to get to work, because this work fuels my dreams for the future. My dreams for my children to achieve the highest levels of education, for myself to purchase land and construct a home for my family as well as to start my own restaurant business one day, and my dream that Akola will grow.
 

Before joining Akola, hopelessness defined my life. I had no job and was going through many hardships as I took care of my two children by myself after we had separated from their father, and I was losing hope about the future prospects of life. Becoming one of Akola’s twelve pioneer members in 2010 greatly changed my views of the future and my abilities to shape my own. Although I am an uneducated woman, I have knowledge and strength that can empower others because of Akola’s encouragement.

In recent years, Akola has especially helped me find hope during a time of extreme uncertainty. In April of 2017, I suffered a stroke. I was in a coma in a hospital ward and couldn’t move my right side. I couldn’t imagine what my new life would look like when I left the hospital. I was able to continue to work at Akola, contributing as a packaging team member as I regain movement in my right side. I now have a new job as a holistic wellness assistant for Akola Academy, helping support my fellow Akola women.

My daily philosophy and a message to others is to derive and define your victories on a daily basis. Contemplating your limitations will always keep you blind to what you have. As a person who suffered from a stroke, walking, smiling, moving my hand and being able to work are some of my daily victories. However small it may be, counting your wins will make the pursuit of hope more meaningful.

-Sandra Obura