The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Dedication
Your unwavering support, boundless love, and belief in me have been the cornerstones of my journey. Your encouragement has lifted me in moments of doubt, and your wisdom has guided me through every challenge. Thank you for standing by my side with patience, understanding, and kindness. Your strength and compassion inspire me every day, and I am deeply grateful for the life we share and the dreams we continue to pursue together.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my parents, Twaleb and Saira, for their unwavering support and unconditional love throughout my journey. Their encouragement has been a constant source of strength, inspiring me to pursue my dreams and overcome challenges. They have instilled in me the values of hard work, compassion, and resilience, shaping me into the person I am today. I am truly thankful for their sacrifices and belief in me, which have been instrumental in all my achievements.
With all my love and gratitude,
Dr. Anjum
Phase 1 : A Childhood of Dreams
Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius, often referred to as a paradise on earth, served as the backdrop to Dr. Anjum’s early life. The island’s lush green hills, turquoise waters, and rich cultural mosaic provided a vibrant environment that nurtured her formative years. The small island nation, a melting pot of traditions and festivals, offered her a unique perspective on diversity and human connection, shaping her worldview from an early age.
Discovering Her Passion
Even as a child, Dr. Anjum displayed an innate charisma and an eagerness to express herself. Her love for communication was first evident in the classroom, where she excelled in storytelling and recitations. She wrote a poem on ‘My Pen’ at the age of 10. Anjum’s mother noticed her eagerness to perform on stage and supported her in writing a poem titled My Pen. Since childhood, Anjum has always been seen with a copybook and pen in hand.
Standing on the podium, holding the trophy, she felt a sense of fulfilment she had never experienced before. The applause of the audience was not just a recognition of her talent but also a validation of her dream—to inspire and connect with people through the power of words.
Discovering Her Passion
Dr. Anjum’s early years were also marked by her fascination with the art of public speaking. She practiced tirelessly, observing great speakers, improving her articulation, and building confidence with each performance. Her determination to master public speaking not only shaped her communication skills but also fueled her passion for inspiring and influencing others through words. Her parents, recognizing her passion, nurtured her dreams with unwavering support. They encouraged her to explore every opportunity to develop her communication skills, enrolling her in workshops and programs that honed her abilities.
Phase 2 : A Journey to India
The island of Mauritius, with its charm and familial warmth, had always been Dr. Anjum’s cocoon of comfort and inspiration. Yet, as she stepped into her late teens, her life was about to take a transformative leap. A prestigious scholarship from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) opened the doors to a new chapter, one that would take her to India—a land rich in history, diversity, and opportunity.
Winning the ICCR scholarship was not merely an achievement but a testament to Dr. Anjum’s hard work and aspirations. The selection process was rigorous, with candidates evaluated on their academic performance, extracurricular activities, and potential to contribute to their chosen fields. When the announcement came, it was a moment of pride and joy for her family. It symbolized not only her dedication but also the beginning of a journey that would shape her future in ways she could not yet imagine.
Upon her arrival in Pune, a bustling city known as the "Oxford of the East," Dr. Anjum found herself immersed in a vibrant academic and cultural environment. Pune University, with its sprawling campus, rich academic traditions, and diverse student body, became the epicentre of her educational journey.
Dr. Anjum’s performance in psychology was nothing short of remarkable. She not only mastered her coursework but also actively participated in seminars, research projects, and student organizations. Her professors often praised her inquisitive nature and her ability to think critically, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
She formed lifelong friendships with classmates from different parts of India and other international students, creating a support network that became her extended family. These interactions taught her the importance of empathy and the universality of human experiences, lessons that would later become central to her professional endeavours.
Dr. Anjum’s journey to India was more than an academic pursuit—it was a period of profound personal and professional growth. The challenges she faced and the achievements she earned shaped her into a confident, resilient, and empathetic individual. By the time she completed her studies, she had not only built a strong foundation in psychology but had also developed the skills and mindset needed to create her future.
Her transition to Osmania University was marked by a newfound sense of confidence. She was now more focused on her passion for psychology. The program offered an intensive exploration of human behaviour, and Dr. Anjum found herself deeply engaged in her coursework, from understanding cognitive processes to exploring therapeutic practices. Her interest in the field grew exponentially, and she excelled in her academic pursuits.
Overcoming every challenge in life taught her the value of persistence, adaptability, and the power of learning from every experience. She understood that success was not just about talent or intellect—it was about the willingness to face difficulties head-on, to keep going when the path seemed unclear, and to learn from every setback.
Her path was now clear: she would continue to pursue her passion for psychology, further her studies, and contribute to the world in ways that would inspire others. The lessons she had learned, especially the importance of persistence, learning, and embracing challenges, would guide her every step of the way. As Pelé wisely said, “Success is no accident.” Dr. Anjum’s success was not just the result of talent—it was the product of hard work, resilience, and a deep love for what she did.
Phase 3 : Giving Back to Mauritius
After years of rigorous academic training and personal growth in India, Dr. Anjum returned to her beloved homeland of Mauritius, a place she had always held close to her heart. However, her return was not just a homecoming—it was a return with a purpose. Armed with newfound knowledge, a wealth of experiences, and a burning passion to make a tangible difference, she set out to give back to the people and community that had shaped her into the person she was today.
When she arrived back in Mauritius, she was acutely aware of the challenges faced by her fellow countrymen, particularly in the realms of mental health. Despite being an idyllic island nation, Mauritius, like many parts of the world, struggled with rising health issues, both physical and mental. Mental health was still a topic that was often brushed under the rug. Dr. Anjum knew she could make a profound impact in these areas.
Mental Health Awareness Campaigns
Dr. Anjum’s first major initiative was to launch mental health awareness campaigns across Mauritius and Rodrigues. The stigma surrounding mental health in Mauritius, as in many other parts of the world, was a significant obstacle to progress. People often viewed mental health challenges as a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of, leading many to suffer in silence. Dr. Anjum recognized that education and awareness were the most powerful tools to break down these misconceptions and foster a supportive environment for those in need.
With the support of local organizations, community leaders, and healthcare professionals, Dr. Anjum began conducting public seminars, workshops, and community outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of mental health. Her approach was grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the cultural sensitivities of her people. She spoke openly about the signs of mental health issues, the benefits of seeking help, and the importance of destigmatizing mental illness. Anjum led campaigns on mental health awareness, teenage pregnancy, and drug abuse in both Mauritius and Rodrigues, raising awareness and promoting positive change.
