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Gold Medal to TISS: Vaibhav’s Extraordinary Journey from Tragedy to Triumph

πŸ“… May 25, 2026 πŸ• 5 min read ✍️ Sarang Umate

From losing his parents at the age of two β€” to standing on stage at Nagpur University as a Gold Medalist, and walking into TISS as a postgraduate scholar. Vaibhav’s story isn’t just inspiring. It’s a testament to what one caring home can do.

Vaibhav at TISS Convention Centre, Mumbai

Vaibhav at the TISS Convention Centre, Mumbai β€” where his journey continues.
Vaibhav at TISS Mumbai
Vaibhav at the TISS Convention Centre, Mumbai β€” where his journey continues
2 yrsAge when orphaned
15 kmDaily school commute
6 / 6Semesters ranked 1st
GoldRTM Nagpur University

A Childhood Shaped by Loss

Vaibhav was born in the small village of Morachapur, Wardha district. At just two years old, he lost both his parents in a devastating family tragedy. With nowhere to turn, his elder uncle welcomed him into his home in Brahmanwada village β€” already raising two sons of his own in poverty, yet choosing to give Vaibhav shelter, care, and the warmth of a family.

15 Kilometres Every Day, Rain or Shine

For 8th to 10th standard, Vaibhav attended school in Wadhona β€” nearly 15 kilometres away. He made that journey every single day. During holidays, he worked on farms and at catering events to fund his own schooling. The COVID-19 pandemic brought even greater hardship during his 11th and 12th standard β€” there were days when food itself was uncertain. His college was 30 kilometres away. Yet he completed his 12th standard β€” determined and unbroken.

🌾 He didn’t wait to be rescued. While challenges mounted, Vaibhav kept moving forward β€” one step, one kilometre, one exam at a time.

Finding Home at Aasamant Snehalaya

With fierce determination but no means to continue studying, Vaibhav came to Wardha and knocked on the door of Aasamant Snehalaya. He met Shivaji Chaudhari, explained his story, and asked for one thing β€” a place to stay so he could pursue his education. He was welcomed in.

Vaibhav enrolled in the BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) programme. At the time, he struggled to read Marathi fluently and found academics overwhelming. But the ashram’s environment β€” built on encouragement, structure, and deep belief in every resident β€” worked on him quietly and steadily.

Year 1

Joined Aasamant Snehalaya. Struggling with academics and reading skills.

Year 2

Growing confidence. Steady improvement. First signs of academic excellence.

Year 3

Ranked 1st in all 6 semesters. Became the Gold Medalist of RTM Nagpur University in BSW.

Today

Pursuing MSW at Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai.

β€œThe mentors here always told me β€” dream beyond your circumstances. I’m still learning how to do that. But I’m doing it.”

β€” Vaibhav, Gold Medalist & TISS Scholar

Gold Medal. TISS. What Comes Next.

Vaibhav secured first rank in all six semesters of his BSW programme and was awarded the Gold Medal at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University. With guidance from his mentors, he then prepared for national entrance exams and was selected for the prestigious MSW programme at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences β€” where he is currently studying and growing.

There Are More Vaibhavs Waiting

Every child who comes to Aasamant Snehalaya carries a story like this β€” of hardship, of hope, and of extraordinary potential. Your support makes it possible to say yes when the next Vaibhav knocks on the door.

Support a Student Today β†’

S

Sarang Umate

Team Aasamant Snehalaya β€” working on the ground to create impact through education, environment & culture.

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