From a Village to the Maldives: The Inspiring Journey of a Small Town Girl Gungun Sharma.

Shimla:

In a remarkable tale of determination and success, Gungun Sharma, a bright and ambitious young woman from a small village Kot in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, has turned her dreams into reality against all odds. After losing her father at a young age, Gungun’s mother, Indira Devi, worked tirelessly as a cook in a government school to support her education. Apart from her mother, Gungun has sister Kashish Sharma in her family.

Excelling in her studies, particularly in computer science, Gungun discovered her passion for tourism and hospitality through a vocational program at her school Government Senior Secondary School Sadiana in Mandi. With the encouragement of her mentor, Vijay Sen, a dedicated vocational trainer, she pursued this path, despite skepticism from relatives.

After completing her 12th grade, Gungun enrolled in a pioneering B.Voc program launched by the Himachal government. Under Vijay’s guidance, at Government Vallabh College Mandi , she thrived in her studies and practical training, leading to her first job as an intern at a hotel in Chandigarh. Her journey continued as she secured a position at a five-star hotel, ultimately landing a lucrative opportunity at the Kurumba Resort in the Maldives, earning around Rs. 1 lakh per month, along with free accommodation and meals.

By August 2023, just 1.3 years into her career, Gungun achieved a significant milestone: purchasing a Grand Vitara car worth 10-19 lakhs before turning 21. Her inspiring story serves as a beacon of hope for the youth, highlighting the potential of vocational education and the importance of mentorship. Gungun’s journey has not only transformed her life but also won over her critics, proving that with determination and the right guidance, one can overcome even the toughest challenges.