Sunithi’s early life was marked by tragedy. Her mother, Fayal, passed away a month after giving birth to her, and her father, Murali, passed away less than a year later. So, Sunithi was raised by her paternal grandmother.

In 2012, she started sixth grade at Siloam Boarding Home. She thrived at Siloam, pursuing dance and public speaking and excelling in her studies.

When she was in eighth grade, her grandmother passed away. She was overcome with grief, and even though her grandmother’s sister became her guardian, she struggled to meet her basic needs.

This traumatic loss made it hard to concentrate in class, and her grades fell. As the 12th grade exam approached, the pressure to succeed was overwhelming, and she began worrying about her ability to afford necessities after leaving the boarding home. She struggled to concentrate every day, and she ended up not passing the exam.  

Aswini, the Sponsor Relationship Coordinator at Siloam, knew the obstacles facing Sunithi, but she believed in Sunithi’s ability to succeed given the right support. Aswini contacted Sunithi’s guardian and discussed higher education options. 
Sunithi retook the exam, but she did not pass. While this limited her options, Aswini suggested that she enroll in a community college. However, she knew that Sunithi and her guardian couldn’t afford the tuition. She recommended that LPGM provide support for Sunithi through the Extended Study Program.

The request was granted, and Sunithi is now enrolled at Immaculate Community College. She is studying to be a general nurse assistant. Aswini shares, “Sunithi’s story is a testament to her strength and the positive impact of community support in overcoming adversity.”

Sunithi is doing well in her new program, and she is filled with gratitude. “I was so excited to start another part of my studies. Now it’s going well, and I’m learning so many things.”

Your support of LPGM’s Extended Study Program offers a lifeline for bright students like Sunithi who just need a little extra support to thrive. 

Support students like Sunithi achieve their dreams 

Students in the general nurse assistant program pose together.

Sunithi poses in her scrubs.

Sunithi stands with her college classmates.