Success Story: In the bustling streets of India, the aroma of freshly made paan often wafts through the air. But for Kajal Rajvaidya, that scent was a constant reminder of her humble beginnings, as her father ran a small paan stall. Today, she is the CEO of a successful company. This is her incredible story.
Early Struggles:
Born into a modest family, Kajal’s education was initially confined to a Municipal Council school. By the fourth grade, her schooling journey seemed to be coming to a halt due to financial constraints.
Manutai Kanya Shala:
Her destiny took a turn when she found solace at Manutai Kanya Shala. Founded in 1911 by the revolutionary Manutai Bapat, the institution was a result of Bapat’s fight for women’s right to education.
The Journey to School:
Determined and passionate, Kajal walked miles daily, embodying the spirit of the school that was founded to uplift girls like her.
Financial Setbacks:
Despite the family’s financial crises, especially when her father’s bank closed, her dream of pursuing engineering seemed distant.
A Tough Decision:
Kajal, after her diploma, contemplated seeking employment to aid her family financially.
Father’s Unwavering Faith:
But her father, impoverished but indomitable, secured a Rs. 3 lakh loan, urging Kajal to pursue her engineering dreams.
The Reality of Campus Selection:
After years of dedication, the campus selection was underwhelming. The offered job barely paid Rs. 5,000, a role even 12th graders held.
A New Path:
Declining the offer, Kajal delved into practical applications, refining her expertise.
Embracing Robotics:
The world of robotics beckoned. Kajal started workshops, imparting her knowledge to younger generations.
Entrepreneurial Leap:
In 2015, she founded KITS (Kajal Innovation and Technical Solution), marking her entry into the business world.
Empowering Young Girls:
Kajal believed in giving back. She started teaching in Akola, aiming to introduce her students to competitive environments. However, a local college’s prejudice against her students left her undeterred.
The International Stage:
The First Lego League competition was on the horizon. Preparations began in September 2019 for the January 2020 event.
Unwavering Determination:
A month before the competition, a leg injury left Kajal wheelchair-bound. Yet, her spirit remained unbroken, and she continued coaching.
Victory Against All Odds:
Competing fiercely, the girls of Manutai Girls School awaited results. With teams winning opportunities to travel internationally, the stakes were high.
Fulfilling Manutai’s Vision:
Kajal’s commitment bore fruit. Her team clinched the first position, making not just her but also Manutai Bapat’s dream a reality.
Global Recognition:
KITS today offers diverse software-based services, spanning from robotics to biomedical instruments. With a client base stretching from Yemen to America, Kajal has made her mark, garnering numerous accolades.
