Suborna Akter Riya, a 16-year-old student from Katakhali village in Bishwambharpur Upazila of Sunamganj District, is a shining symbol of resilience and determination. A candidate for the SSC examination from Katakhali Public School, Suborna stands out as a bright and talented learner with a deep passion for mathematics. Her greatest dream is to one day serve her country as an army officer. Alongside her academic pursuits, she nurtures a profound love for music and singing.
Life has never been easy for Suborna. Born into a family struggling with extreme poverty, she faced unimaginable loss at a very young age. Her father passed away when she was just a child, and more recently, her mother—the only pillar of support in her life—also passed away, leaving her completely alone. The youngest of four sisters, Suborna is the only one yet to marry, and she now bears the weight of survival on her own shoulders.
Her mother, a woman of unwavering strength, worked tirelessly to ensure Suborna’s education. With no stable income and no one else to rely on, she raised ducks, chickens, and goats to keep the household running and support her daughter’s schooling. There were days when the family couldn’t afford even a single proper meal, relying on the kindness of neighbors and relatives to get by. Eventually, as the burden became unbearable, Suborna’s education came to a halt.
But fate had something different in store.
In 2024, the Education Champion Network (ECN-7) project by ERA began its work in Bishwambharpur. Upon learning about Suborna’s heartbreaking circumstances, ERA stepped in and extended financial assistance of BDT 50,000. With this support, her mother purchased a cow—an investment that soon became a vital source of income, allowing Suborna to return to school and continue her studies.
Tragically, just months later, Suborna’s mother passed away, leaving her orphaned. Yet, in the face of overwhelming adversity, Suborna refused to give up. Her heart heavy with grief but her spirit unbroken, she clung to her books and dreams with even greater determination. She knew that education was her only path forward—a light in the darkness.
Suborna’s journey is one of unyielding perseverance, inner strength, and hope. Despite life’s relentless challenges, she has shown that courage can flourish even in the harshest conditions. Today, as she sits for her SSC examinations, she does so not only as a student but as a symbol of resilience. Her story is a powerful reminder that with faith in oneself and a little support, even the most impossible dreams can begin to take shape.
Suborna Akter Riya is not just a name—she is an inspiration for every girl fighting against the odds to carve out a better future.
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