“I grew up in a family where education meant everything. When I lost my father at 11, our world turned upside down. But my mother didn’t let us drift. She’d always say, “Education is the one thing no one can take away from you.”

Even when things were difficult, she stayed steady—for my brother and me. She worked different jobs, made sacrifices, and never asked for anything in return. One memory I carry with me is how she would wait up for me, no matter how late I got home. Even after a long day, she’d be sitting there, half-asleep, just to hear the door open. A simple “You’re home” was all she said—but that one line made everything feel okay.

As I grew older, I explored different careers, worked abroad, and eventually found my way to volunteering. I joined Teach for Change and began teaching English in government schools. It felt like a way to carry forward what she believed in.

There were tough days—when resources were lacking, or when teachers didn’t believe change was possible. But I kept going, holding on to what I’d seen in her: the willingness to show up, no matter what. After five years, being named Volunteer of the Year twice was an honour—but the real joy came from seeing children speak up, grow confident, and dream big.

To anyone reading this: your mother may not always understand your world, but her care and effort make it possible. Her sacrifices may not always be visible, but they’re there in every step you take. Celebrate her—not just today, but every day. Listen to her. Say thank you.

My mother didn’t have all the answers. But she gave us belief—and that changed everything.”

• Anitha Nandigam