For 47-year-old mobile technician Atish Chand, life has never been easy.
Yet through hard work and a keen heart, he has built a livelihood doing what he loves.
For years, Atish has travelled to communities on foot, carrying his tools on his backpack and offering repair services for washing machines, sewing machines and other electrical appliances.
It is work he takes great pride in, knowing that his skills help families save money and keep essential household items functioning.
His journey, however, is far from straightforward.
Atish dropped out of Ba Sanatan College while in Form Three to help support his family during difficult times.
“Life then was a struggle,” he said.
“I always wanted to own a farm but I had to leave school do my bit to help my dad who worked as a painter and put food on the table,” he recalled.
Determined to create a better future, he seized an opportunity in 1996 to undertake training courses in home appliance repairs.
The skills he gained opened doors, eventually leading him to work in a garment factory repairing sewing machines.
Although life brought personal challenges, including the breakdown of his marriage, Atish remained focused on moving forward and providing for his children who now live with his brother in New Zealand.
He lives in Jittu Estate, off Granmtham Road, and his children remain his greatest motivation.
“I don’t want my children to go through what I did,” he said.
“I work hard and hope they become successful in life.”
Atish’s message to young people is simple but powerful.
“You can be successful in life no matter what circumstances you faced growing up.”
“All you have to do is work hard and give it your best shot.”
For Atish, success is not necessarily where you start, but your determination to keep going.
