Born on July 7, 1991, in Seetharamapuram, Andhra Pradesh, Srikanth Bolla struggled right from the start.
Overcoming Adversity
Born from uneducated parents with visual handicaps and from a family dependent on farming, his early life was challenging. Given few resources, no electricity, and education as a luxury, Srikanth’s career is proof of resiliency and drive. Even with social and educational challenges, he never let his handicap define his future.
Academic Struggles and Triumphs
Srikanth struggled along his academic career. In tenth school, he intended to study science, but he was rejected because of bad vision. Although his XII board test results were 98%, his school lacked accommodations for visually challenged students. Srikanth, however, was tenacious and produced a court case he filed, which he won six months later, therefore making him the first visually challenged student in Andhra Pradesh pursuing science. His latter successes were set up by his tenacity in challenging conditions.
Building a Vision
2011 saw Srikanth open a braille printing press and co-found the Samanvai Center for Children with Multiple Disabilities. His aim was to provide many disabled pupils with educational, vocational, and rehabilitative programs thereby enabling them to lead financially independent lives. Starting Bollant Industries in 2012 with Ravi Mantha, Srikanth developed eco-friendly products and employed hundreds of persons with disabilities. Growing rapidly, Bollant Industries tackles more general issues as well as environmental, financial, and employment ones.
Recognition and Continued Impact
Srikanth Bolla works not in silence. On the “30 Under 30” list Forbes created in 2017 covering all of Asia, one of just three Indians. Pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, Srikanth, director of Surge Impact Foundation, is constantly pushing limitations. For others as much as for oneself, his work demonstrates how powerfully a clear goal and unwavering commitment can transform life.
An Inspiration for Youth
The road Srikanth Bolla follows inspires young people all around. His life teaches us that any difficulty is not insurmountable given enough determination and effort. The story of Srikanth motivates us to perceive our own possibilities, to push our limits, and to seize opportunities when none would seem to be present. From a small town to spearheading societal change, Srikanth Bolla personifies the power of vision and the resiliency needed along that road.
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