“The Maharani coordinators helped me realise the importance of first impressions. With their guidance I have learned to dress appropriately and also changed the way I speak so that people will take me seriously,” she said.Yuvarani lost her father at the tender age of 10 which had a major impact on her life. To support the family, her mother began working as a cleaner. “My father’s death is my most painful memory and I remember that as the eldest, I had to be strong for my mom and younger brother. I tried to show everyone that I was tough, but I broke down several times,” she said. Being a part of the Maharani programme has helped her learn how to manage and channel her feelings.

“At the Maharani camp, the coordinators supported me and my dream. I want to be someone who can inspire others especially other girls who grew up in a similar situation. I want to inspire them to have a dream and work towards achieving their dreams.“The phrase ‘from zero to hero’ explains how I feel today. I was struggling with many personal issues before this but the Maharani programme turned me into a confident and positive girl who strives to get what she wants. Today I can live independently and earn an income as a café assistant at the Y Café, thanks to the programme,” she said.