“I grew up in a small village in Warangal district, where life was challenging from the start. At 9, my father left my sister and me at a government-run orphanage, hoping we’d get better care due to our family circumstances.

Continuing higher education seemed impossible due to financial issues. At 16, I got married and soon became a mother of two. My husband and I worked hard as farmers, with me earning a small wage in agricultural fields. But I didn’t give up. During this phase, things were difficult, but I had no choice. Giving up wasn’t an option; I wanted to provide a better future for my children.I even volunteered at a local school to earn a better living. I earned a Degree in Bachelor of Arts from Dr. BR Ambedkar Open University and a Postgraduate diploma later.

A few years later, one of the family members visit from the US inspired me to move there and work. After a year of paperwork, I flew to the US, where things only got tougher. I lived with a Gujarati family as a paying guest, working multiple small jobs. But this sparked my entrepreneurial dreams. With all my savings, I started an IT Consulting firm with a team in Phoenix in 2001. Both my daughters completed their education and are now settled abroad. I’m proud of not giving in to negativity and standing up for myself.

Today, as a successful businesswoman, I feel a sense of responsibility to give back. Through our philanthropic initiatives on behalf of Jyothi Reddy Foundation, I support education for underprivileged children, skill development, and aid to orphanages and disadvantaged communities. Empowering women and children is a cause close to my heart, and I’m dedicated to helping them create better futures.”

• Jyothi Reddy Dudipala, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist