At GPS, we are well aware that schools help create opportunities for both the child and parent alike. Vijayalakshmi Rajkumar, a GPS mother of two, tells her story of starting her own business making artful ceiling decorations within the local community - and how GPS helped it grow.

My name is Vijayalakshmi Rajkumar. I have two children who study at the Global Pathways School. They are Swetha, in grade 12, and Hushwanth, in grade 4. 

I am a four wheeler goods vehicle driver, and I started a business making ornamental ceiling mouldings. My husband was my inspiration who encouraged me. He is a skilled painter and I am creative with paint - so art and ornamental moulding (cornice) worked out well.

“My dream is to extend my helping hand by growing my business and helping provide jobs for women who are struggling in life."

It is challenging living in a remote area to market and make a living out if it. We did not have elders at home to take care of my children to  support us with babysitting when they were small. In this regard, because GPS was established near our home, it made a big difference because we could enroll them in school. 

Although we do not have the opportunity to create this cornice in my house, I admire the work in other people's homes. I love my job and I can spend time with my children.

Initially I was shy and hesitant to drive the goods carrier. But with customer’s support and my husband’s encouragement, I now take pride in driving.