When I was just 10 years old, we lost our father. The loss was devastat- ing, and suddenly, Kamlesh was left to raise five daughters on her own. Despite the emotional and financial struggles, she never let us feel the weight of her responsibilities. She faced every challenge with resilience, ensuring we continued our education no matter what the cost. “Resilience is not about avoiding the storm; it’s about facing it with cour- age,” Kamlesh often says. She became the foundation of our strength, showing us how to persevere in difficult times. Kamlesh’s poise and calm were particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. When she was admitted to the hospital for a month after seeing dead bodies all around, she never allowed fear or worry to over- whelm her. Every day, she greeted the harsh reality with a smile, teaching us all the true meaning of strength in adversity. During this difficult time, Kamlesh’s resilience shone brightly. “No matter how hard life gets, never lose your ability to smile,” she reminded us, in- spiring us to handle challenges with grace. Kamlesh has left us with five guiding principles: 1. Education is everything: “It opens doors that no one can shut.” 2. Financial independence is a woman’s real form of freedom: “Only when you are financially independent can you truly stand tall.” 3. Life will have ups and downs, but resilience is key: “It’s not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get up.” 4. Good karma matters, regardless of your faith: “Whatever religion you believe in, kindness and good actions matter most.” 5. Kindness is the most beautiful quality: “Kindness is what makes you not only beautiful on the inside but also radiates outward.” “True beauty is found in the heart, and your strength comes from the love you give to others,” Kamlesh taught us. Through her example, we strive to live with kindness and resilience every day.
Vanessa Salazar Vasquez TP in Peru
My mother has been my greatest support in every aspect of my life. Despite the difficulties she faced from a young age, today she is a nurse with several master’s degrees and works as a department head. She al- ways gave her best, raising her three children on her own, without the presence of my father, who started another family. Although she never shared her struggles, she always motivated us with a smile and encour- aging words. When I looked at her, I saw an empowered, determined woman full of love for her family. Throughout my life, she has been a constant example of strength, re- silience, and dedication. Despite the adversities, she always had a heart full of love and a positive attitude toward everything. Her unconditional support is what allowed me to move forward, even when things weren’t easy for me. She never abandoned me, not even in my hardest moments, and showed me what it means to be a truly devoted mother. Today, thanks to her support, I’m about to complete my degree, and I want to be like her: a strong, professional, and loving woman. I have no words to thank her for everything she’s done for me and our family. My love and admiration for her are endless, and I will always be grateful for the sacrifice and love she gave me.
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FOSTERING EMPOWERMENT
LETTERS TO MOTHERS
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