Recently, Back2Back India staff held a graduation celebration to honor the first Hope Program graduate! Guhan* has been part of Back2Back programming from an early age and over the years, has grown into a mature, hardworking, compassionate young man. As the first student in India’s Hope Program, he excelled in Junior College, then went on to university studying Software Engineering.

“Guhan’s story is one of triumph,” shared Goldie, Back2Back India Site Director. “At a very young age, he lost his father, and his mom was propelled into raising two children as a single parent. She wanted her son to do well, to succeed, and she knew she could be the example he’d look to.” 

With this goal in mind, Guhan’s mom returned to school for nursing, stating that, to this day, she did it for her children. And Guhan watched from afar as she stepped into bravery, making difficult decisions that would ultimately serve her children and the life she envisioned for her family best. 

The graduation celebration was a time for Guhan to gather alongside other young adults with whom he’d grown up, with staff familiar with his story and who offered consistent support, and with his mom and sister, for whom he pursued university. It was a joyous time of community, and he has become an inspiration to many, leading the charge for what is possible for young adults, regardless of their upbringing or history.

“I am so excited to graduate from university,” shared Guhan. “My mom has struggled so much over the years to provide for us, and I know this is my chance to thank and care for her.”

Please join Back2Back in celebrating all Guhan has accomplished and all he is inspiring his peers to pursue in the name of hope.