From School Dropout to Studio Owner: Kulwant’s Story of Transformation

In 2003, Kulwant Singh was living in the Kalyanpuri slum with very few options for his future. Having dropped out of school in the 6th grade, he worked a physically demanding job riding a delivery rickshaw to transport meal packages to local government schools for a catering contractor. In an area where most boys left school early, Kulwant’s path seemed pre-determined—until a chance encounter changed everything.

A Discipleship Centre (DC) staff member noticed Kulwant during a delivery and invited him to join an outing to a local park organized for neighborhood youth. Kulwant agreed and joined a group of 25 young people for a day of games, entertainment, and motivational storytelling. When DC staff asked about his life, Kulwant openly shared his story. Seeing his potential, the team encouraged him to join the English-speaking course at the DC Child and Adolescent Resource Centre.

That decision marked a complete turning point:

• Foundational Learning: DC provided tutoring across all core academic subjects alongside his English classes to bridge his learning gaps.
• Academic Breakthrough: Staff assisted Kulwant with enrolling in open schooling, guiding him to successfully pass both his 10th and 12th-standard examinations.
• Professional Growth: Recognizing his drive, DC hired Kulwant as a staff member, where he gained essential skills in discipline, teamwork, and community service.
• Pursuing a Passion: While working at the centre, Kulwant discovered a passion for photography. With full encouragement and support from the DC team, he learned the craft and built his technical skills.

Through perseverance, hard work, and the right support system, Kulwant eventually founded his own photography studio. Today, he successfully runs his business and earns a living doing what he loves.

“DC gave me the right direction, proper guidance, education, encouragement, and opportunities to move forward and build my future,” Kulwant reflects. “Much of the inspiration and confidence that helped me progress in life came through the Discipleship Centre. Whatever I am able to do today, I believe DC has made a very significant contribution to my journey.”

From a 6th-grade dropout delivering school meals on a rickshaw to a confident entrepreneur, Kulwant’s journey shows the power of timely encouragement and dedicated support. Discipleship Centre remains deeply proud to have walked alongside him every step of the way.