From Surviving to Striving: The Inspiring Story of Preethi Sam

In the tapestry of life, there are those who merely survive the challenges that come their way, and there are those who rise above adversity and strive to make a meaningful impact on the world. Preethi Sam, a renowned Indian educational entrepreneur, embodies the latter. Her unwavering determination and passion for empowering underprivileged children have earned her the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honor for women in India.

Early Life and Education

Born into an underprivileged family in rural Tamil Nadu, Preethi Sam's childhood was marked by struggles and hardships. Despite the challenges, she possessed an unyielding thirst for knowledge. She pursued her education diligently, often studying under the dim light of a kerosene lamp. Her exceptional academic performance earned her a coveted scholarship to study at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras.

At IIT Madras, Preethi not only excelled academically but also became deeply involved in extracurricular activities. She joined the National Service Scheme (NSS),a student-led voluntary organization, and discovered her true calling in serving the underprivileged. Witnessing the dire need for quality education in her community, she resolved to dedicate her life to empowering children with access to transformative learning opportunities.

Founding Sampark Educational Trust

After graduating with honors from IIT Madras, Preethi returned to her hometown with a vision to establish a school that would provide holistic education to children from marginalized communities. With the support of a small group of like-minded individuals, she founded the Sampark Educational Trust in 1999.

Sampark's mission was to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment where children could develop their intellectual, social, and emotional capacities to their fullest potential. The school adopted an innovative curriculum that emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning experiences.

Empowering Children and Transforming Communities

Under Preethi Sam's visionary leadership, Sampark Educational Trust has grown into a network of 16 schools that provide transformative education to over 4,000 children across Tamil Nadu. The schools offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes academics, extracurricular activities, and life skills training.

Beyond academics, Sampark focuses on holistic development by nurturing children's creativity, leadership skills, and sense of social responsibility. The school organizes regular workshops, field trips, and community engagement programs that expose children to different perspectives and broaden their horizons.

The impact of Sampark's work is evident in the lives of its graduates. Many have gone on to pursue higher education at prestigious universities in India and abroad, while others have become successful entrepreneurs and community leaders. Sampark's alumni are making a positive impact in their communities, contributing to the social and economic development of the region.

Recognition and Accomplishments

Preethi Sam's dedication and unwavering commitment to empowering underprivileged children have earned her numerous accolades and recognition. In 2019, she received the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar from the President of India for her extraordinary contribution to education. She has also been awarded the Child Rights Award by the Tamil Nadu State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the Karmaveer Puraskar by the iCONGO Foundation.

Preethi Sam's work has been featured in numerous national and international publications, including The New York Times, The Hindu, and BBC News. She has been invited to speak at prestigious platforms such as the World Economic Forum and the Global Education and Skills Forum. Her inspiring story serves as a beacon of hope and demonstrates the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a more just and equitable society.

Preethi Sam's journey from surviving to striving is a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all. Through her unwavering determination and unwavering belief in the power of education, she has empowered thousands of children to break the shackles of poverty and reach their full potential. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, we can rise above our circumstances and make a meaningful difference in the world.

As Preethi Sam herself says, "Education is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills. It is about transforming lives and empowering individuals to become agents of change in their communities."