#UnlearnToRise - Snigdha V.A.

This World Inclusion Day, we bring you #UnlearnToRise, a series continuing our conversations around unconscious bias. Through real stories from across Mahindra, we explore the assumptions we make about people and the beliefs we need to unlearn.

“I joined Tech Mahindra as a fresher in May 2014, excited to begin my life as a software professional. Six months into training, at just 22, I was diagnosed with leukaemia. What followed was a whole year of intensive chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. It was the darkest phase of my life, and the road to recovery was long.

But even during that difficult time, I found ways to express myself through art, poetry, blogging, and journaling. Creating greeting cards for fellow patients and connecting with the people around me helped me find moments of joy amid the uncertainty. And my mother was my pillar of strength.

When I returned to work in June 2016, the support I received from Tech Mahindra helped me rebuild my confidence. Joining the office Toastmasters Club became a turning point, giving me the space to find my voice again and connect with people through my experiences.

Over time, I also discovered that my interests and strengths drew me towards people-centric work. With the support of approachable leaders, I transitioned from Delivery into HR, a move that has opened new possibilities for me.

My journey has taught me that recovery isn’t just about getting back to where you were. Sometimes, it helps you discover a new direction, new strengths, and a different way of looking at life. I’ve been given a second chance at life, and I want to make the most of it. Today, I continue to pursue my creative passions and encourage others to do the same. Because even after the darkest storms, new chapters are possible!

This is how I #UnlearnToRise.”