It’s been two-and-a-half years since Varad Sanjay Parvatkar joined Club Mahindra Varca Beach in Goa. The 29-year-old, who hails from Quepem in South Goa, has been specially-abled since birth. But he did not let his disability stop him from achieving bigger things. Despite these challenges, he completed his education at Lokvishwas Prasithan, a special school, in Ponda. “My physical limitations only served to fuel my determination to prove to society that people with physical disabilities can participate fully and actively in life,” says Varad, who has a flair for painting and was active in sports in his school.

Spurred in part by adversity, Varad completed his school education and graduated in Electricals and Electronics at the Government Polytechnic Goa. “Due to my limited abilities, it was very difficult for me to find a job. After much struggle, I got a job in a local bakery and worked there for a year but left soon due to salary issues,” he says. He then joined Lemon Tree Hotel in the Service Department and worked there for three years. While the job position seemed ideal, he left it due to travelling issues.

Everything changed for him when he joined Club Mahindra Varca Beach in Goa on the recommendation of his friend, who is also differently-abled and had worked at the resort. He reminisces, “Everyone was warm and friendly and made me feel comfortable. They respected me as a member of a diverse and productive workforce.” Varad feels proud to be part of the Mahindra family. “I love working here as it is close to my hometown,” he says.

His parents have always been strong supporters. Varad credits them for his own successes, saying that he couldn’t have made it as far as possible, without their support and patience. Today, he is part of the Goa Association of the Deaf and Mute, supporting other disabled persons reach their full potential in life. He receives ongoing support from his senior, Shyam Mohan Jha, the Executive Housekeeper at the resort, and maintains a good relationship with his coworkers.

At his workplace, he seized every opportunity to improve his skills. “Being in this company for the past few years have helped me to grow and improve myself professionally as well as a person,” he explains.