Today, Diyoni can discuss the world economy with confidence. But growing up, the everyday math was much simpler. In her family, there was just never enough. Sponsorship changed that.
Diyoni grew up with her parents, Mariyammal and Periyanayagam, and her two older siblings in a village in south-central India. Despite their hard work as agricultural labourers, it was never easy for her parents to send their children to school.
They were relieved when they met the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod, who run Chalice’s Madurai sponsor site. “My journey with Chalice began in grade six when I was selected for the sponsorship program, which turned out to be a cornerstone of my personal and academic growth,” Diyoni says.
In 2021, “my family faced a tremendous loss with the passing of my father. Periyanayagam died of respiratory failure. “His loss left our family in a difficult situation.”
She watched her older siblings marry and move on to start their own families. It was just Diyani and her mother left at home. Mariyammal continued to labour in the farm fields.
“Chalice sponsorship became our lifeline, ensuring our basic needs were met and enabling me to continue my education,” Diyoni says. Chalice’s Madurai site’s teen programs and meet-ups “were a source of motivation and inspired me to strive for success.”
After high school, she decided to pursue economics, graduating with her Masters of Economics in 2024. She was soon scooped up by an online marketing company. Her salary is now their main income, and she is proud to say it “supports my mother in her daily needs.”
Looking ahead, she plans to take more courses to further her career. Looking back, she focuses on gratitude.
“Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful to my sponsor and Chalice for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in shaping my education and career.”
Your contributions have been a beacon of hope and change for my family, and I express my heartfelt gratitude for the positive impact you have made in my life.
Be the reason a child can pursue their dreams and build a brighter future. Sponsor a child today to help them access education, nutrition, and healthcare.