Young woman finds security through education
The daughter of a poor day labourer in Dinajpur district, Beauty Roy was taken out of school in grade 3 to contribute to the family earnings by working as a maid in someone else’s home, just as her older sisters had done. Her employer beat her, forbade her from visiting her home, and then after one year, sent her back to her parents and seven brothers and sisters.
Freed from work, Beauty eagerly seized at her second chance at studying. She eventually became a top student, and today works as a community health worker – but she had to overcome several financial obstacles and family pressures along the way.
A top student
Although she had re-enrolled in school, she struggled to attend classes because her family could not afford the tuition. Then in grade 8, she joined the village children’s club, supported by Plan Bangladesh. The activities of the club gave her inspiration and determination.
“No matter how hard life becomes, I will not stop going to school, and I will continue my education.”She became the top of her class in grade 10, but her parents, who did not see the value of education, withdrew her from school again so she could focus on household chores.
Still, Beauty was determined not to fall behind on her education, so she worked by day and studied by night on her own.
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The happiness she found
Although she had not attended classes, she sat for the secondary school certificate exam and scored well – and finally her parents realized she was gifted.
With her parents’ encouragement, Beauty finished her higher secondary certificate exam in 2009, and found temporary work as a substitute preschool teacher.
She has now found a full-time job as a health worker, supporting herself and her family, and is working towards her graduation.
“Please pray for me, so that I can continue my education and help mothers and children as a health worker.”
While providing health information to parents, she also urges them to let their children study because through education, their children can ensure the family security… and happiness, as Beauty has found.
