Rabina Neupane, a 44-year-old school bus conductor, has been battling cancer for the past two years, undergoing multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Despite her struggles, she rarely takes time off work, displaying remarkable resilience. Ann John, an English teacher at GEMS New Millennium School, Al Khail, noticed Rabina’s unwavering spirit and invited her to speak at the school’s ‘Living Library’ event, where individuals shared personal stories with students.
The ‘Living Library’ session aimed to showcase the power of human stories, with participants sharing life experiences and insights in an intimate setting. Rabina’s story focused on her journey of resilience, inspiring students with her positive attitude and strength in the face of adversity. Originally from Nepal, Rabina moved to Dubai to support her family and has been working at the school since 2016. Despite facing challenges such as a cancer diagnosis and the loss of her husband, Rabina remains determined to persevere.
During the event, Rabina shared her story of overcoming obstacles and finding gratitude and faith in difficult times. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the importance of resilience and determination. Ann mentioned that many students were moved by Rabina’s story and gained a new perspective on the struggles faced by support staff. The event’s theme, ‘Navigating Life: A Living Library of Resilience and Transformative Choices’, aimed to inspire high school students by connecting them with individuals who had made impactful life decisions.
In addition to Rabina, other speakers at the event shared their stories of resilience and perseverance. Jayadeep Varma, a sales manager in Dubai, spoke about setting goals and working towards success despite challenging circumstances. The event, which initially featured school officials, expanded to include volunteers from various backgrounds, providing students with diverse perspectives on resilience and decision-making. Parents, alumni, and support staff were also invited to participate, offering students valuable insights into overcoming challenges.
The event’s expansion allowed for engaging discussions and lively interactions, with participants sharing personal experiences and lessons learned. Radhika Raman Sewal, a learning and development professional, shared her story of career sustainability while moving across multiple countries. The students, in turn, shared their own struggles and coping mechanisms, creating a supportive and inspiring environment for all involved. Overall, the ‘Living Library’ event served as a platform for individuals to share their stories of resilience and inspire students to face life’s challenges with courage and determination.
