Inspiring Stories of Zero to Hero Winners

Every year, Kokan Kala Va Shikshan Vikas Sanstha honors the remarkable achievements of women who have overcome immense adversity to achieve success through the Zero to Hero award. This year’s Kokan Kala Mahotsav has brought together inspiring women from Maharashtra, each of whom embodies courage, resilience, and determination. Here, we celebrate their stories, showcasing how they transformed their lives and communities.

Anita Gosavi, Maharashtra’s First Female Ambulance Driver

Anita’s journey is one of survival, resilience, and a will to serve. Married at 14 and migrating from her village to Pimpri-Chinchwad, she faced unimaginable challenges when her husband fell ill, leaving her to support their family on her own. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while the world was paralyzed, Anita took on the responsibility of driving an ambulance for her brother who was struck by the virus. Through this, she became Maharashtra’s first female ambulance driver, tirelessly transporting COVID patients and, at times, carrying deceased bodies with bravery.

Despite the struggles, Anita’s resolve strengthened, and she continued this work with unwavering dedication in a male-dominated field. She is a model of strength, proving that women are as capable of facing danger as anyone. Anita’s journey from homemaker to ambulance driver is a true Zero to Hero story, an inspiration to those facing life’s darkest moments.

Rohini Shiledar, From Hearing Loss to Deputy Collector

Rohini Shiledar’s life took an unexpected turn at the age of 23 when a bus accident left her hearing impaired. Despite this, Rohini’s goal of serving as a Deputy Collector never wavered. Coming from a supportive family that encouraged girls’ education, Rohini completed her studies in M.Com with top honors and pursued the rigorous MPSC exam, inspired by her two sisters who had also entered government service.

Her resilience and family’s unwavering support helped her defy expectations. Today, Rohini serves as the Konkan Railway Land Acquisition Officer, setting an example for anyone facing disability. Her story embodies the Zero to Hero spirit and is a testament that no obstacle is insurmountable.

Amruta Shantaram Patil, From Poverty to Entrepreneurship

The sudden loss of her father left Amruta shouldering the responsibility of her younger brother’s education and family’s survival. Working at a grocery store to make ends meet, she held onto her dreams. Through the NGO’s sewing school project, Amrita received free training in fashion design and was gifted a sewing machine, which became the foundation of her journey.

Today, Amrita runs her own tailoring business, earning enough to support her family and fulfill her dreams. Her story speaks to the power of perseverance and the importance of community support. Amrita Patil is a shining example of Zero to Hero, showing that poverty cannot hold back those who are determined to succeed.

Ratna Shivaji Patil, A Fighter for Women’s Rights

In a male-dominated society, Ratna Shivaji Patil from Dhule district rose to challenge gender injustice and empower women. She started by advocating for women through Vidhi Seva Pradikakan Kendra, an initiative focused on women’s legal rights. Despite having little formal education, Ratna took the lead, helping women in her community find their voices and fight oppression.

Ratna’s relentless fight for justice has transformed her into a community icon, showing that change begins with courage and conviction. Her work is a reminder that when women support each other, they build a resilient community. Ratna Patil is honored as a Zero to Hero awardee for her unwavering commitment to women’s rights.

Sheetal Naik, A Dream to Wear the Khaki Uniform

Coming from a remote village with limited resources, Sheetal Naik’s dream of joining the police force seemed impossible. Yet, she braved obstacles, such as crossing the Terekhol River by boat each morning at dawn for field practice, and trained tirelessly with minimal resources.

After a seven-year journey filled with setbacks, her dream became a reality, thanks to her unwavering determination and guidance from mentors. Sheetal Naik’s journey from an uncertain future to a police uniform reflects the Zero to Hero spirit and inspires countless young people to reach for their dreams, no matter how far-fetched they may seem.

Salunka Fasla Sule, From Anganwadi Worker to Community Leader

At the age of 40, Salunka Fasla Sule transitioned from an Anganwadi worker to the director of a farmer-producer company. Living in a drought-prone area of Nandurbar, she spearheaded a community-driven water conservation project inspired by the Pani Foundation, and started a successful dal preparation business.

Her efforts have empowered women in her village to become financially self-sufficient. Salunka Sule’s leadership showcases the power of grassroots initiatives and how one person’s determination can uplift an entire community. Her story is truly Zero to Hero, proving that rural women can be changemakers in agriculture and beyond.

Gulab Waghmare, Education Advocate for Tribal Communities

Gulab Waghmare, born into the Katkari community, was married at the age of 15 and only completed her education up to the fifth grade. However, she recognized the struggles her community faced due to illiteracy and poverty. Determined to make a change, Gulab began advocating for education within her community, helping children stay in school and securing legal rights for her people.

Today, Gulab has succeeded in creating jobs within her village and promoting higher education for her daughters. Her work emphasizes the importance of education as a tool for empowerment. Gulab Waghmare’s transformation from a marginalized background to a community leader is a classic Zero to Hero journey.

Rukhsana Badshah Munde, Empowering Others Through Her Journey

Rukhsana Badshah Munde’s remarkable journey earns her the Zero To Hero Award. Born into a challenging environment, Rukhsana faced numerous obstacles, but her unwavering spirit and perseverance led to triumph.Despite societal norms and financial struggles, she refused to give up. With determination and hard work, Rukhsana overcame each hurdle, paving the way for a brighter future. 

Her inspiring story demonstrates that hard work and determination can overcome adversity. A shining example of resilience, Rukhsana inspires others to overcome challenges, showing that with persistence and courage, anyone can achieve their goals. The Zero to Hero award honors her remarkable journey, recognizing her unwavering commitment to excellence.

Conclusion

These extraordinary women honored by the Zero to Hero award at Kokan Kala Mahotsav 2024 have turned immense challenges into stories of triumph. Their paths illuminate the way for countless others to follow, proving that strength lies in resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. As we celebrate their achievements, let these stories inspire us all to face life’s adversities with hope and resolve to create meaningful change.