Every so often, you come across a story that challenges the norms, not with loud proclamations but with quiet resilience. Neeraj Tiwari’s journey isn’t just about beating the odds–it’s about rewriting them.
Growing up in a small village in Uttarakhand, Neeraj faced obstacles that tested his resolve at every turn. With muscular dystrophy shaping many aspects of his life, he found ways to pursue his dreams, leaning on family, mentors, and his own grit to overcome hurdles. From tackling limited access to education to finding his footing in the tech world, Neeraj’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the opportunities that arise when support meets effort.
Tough childhood with an uncertain future
“Living with muscular dystrophy since childhood wasn’t easy. By the 8th grade, I began to realize how dependent I had become on my family. My mother had to accompany me to school every single day. In my small village in Uttarakhand, where schools only went up to the 10th grade, my options seemed limited.”
“However, with the support of my teachers and the government, I was allowed to complete my 11th and 12th grades by just having to visit school during exams. It was a small win, but once school was over, I found myself facing an uncertain future. What could I possibly do next?”
“A mentor’s advice changed everything for me”
Neeraj’s turning point came when he met his mentor, Rachit Kumar Rastogi, a US-based Senior Software Development Specialist. Rachit encouraged him to consider software development–a field where physical mobility mattered less than mental agility.
“I hadn’t thought about it before, but his words gave me hope. I decided to give it a try.”
Neeraj started with an online MOOC course, but he quickly ran into challenges. The content was in English, and the instructor’s American accent made it tough for him to follow. Recognizing his struggle, Rachit introduced him to Great Learning, where personalized guidance was provided, and the program was designed for non-technical beginners.
But Rachit didn’t stop at just guiding Neeraj–he went above and beyond by sponsoring his education.
“Learning in a language I understood was all I needed”
One of Neeraj’s instructors, Shalini from Great Learning, played a pivotal role in his success.
“She explained everything patiently, ensuring I didn’t miss out on anything. It made all the difference for me.”
Balancing his coursework was challenging, especially with his health limitations, but Shalini provided all the needed support. Neeraj also received his first internship offer during the program but decided to focus solely on his studies.
“It was a tough call, but I knew completing my program was more important at that stage. That decision paid off when I ranked 3rd in my program.”
Neeraj also acknowledges his guiding star, Deeksha Rawat Mulay from Australia, who stepped in and helped him understand HR behaviors and how to present himself in a larger forum.
“Remote work isn’t just a convenience–it’s a lifeline”
After completing the program, Neeraj secured a remote internship as a SAP consultant. Today, he works full-time, entirely from home.
“For someone with limited mobility and spinal issues, remote work is not just a career opportunity–it’s a way of life. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a role that accommodates my challenges while allowing me to excel professionally.”
“You’re only limited by your mindset”
For Neeraj, the journey from uncertainty to a thriving tech career is a testament to the power of resilience and the right support system.
“My advice to anyone facing similar challenges is simple: don’t let the world define your limits. With the will to succeed, you can achieve what once seemed impossible.”
Neeraj now supports his family, a feat he once thought unattainable. His story isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about proving that limitations are only as strong as the barriers we choose to accept.
Neeraj’s inspiring journey has also been featured by The Times of India. Read the full online story here.
