Ambition And True Determination Pave The Way For Success
Pratiksha Tondwalkar sets a precedent for the women's community, get inspired by her amazing journey
This is a story of a strong and self-confident woman, Pratiksha Tondwalkar, a Pune resident who started working as a bank sweeper 37 years ago at the State Bank of India. With a career experience of almost
three decades behind her, she was appointed as an Assistant General Manager (AGM); an achievement for
herself and an example and inspiration for many women and girls like her.
However, this achievement does not come overnight, it is the result of years of struggle and toil. And it is
proof that hard work, self-confidence, perseverance and determination is the key to success. Prathiksha
was born in Pune in 1964. Her parents got her married at the age of 16 before she could complete her Class X exams. Her husband Sadashiv Kadu was based in Mumbai and worked at SBI as a bookbinder. They were soon blessed with a baby boy. But fate struck its hand Pratiksha lost her husband and the sole breadwinner of the family in an accident. Now a single mother and stuck in unstable financial circumstances, she was determined to overcome the odds to give her son a good life.
When she visited the SBI branch where her husband worked to collect the remaining dues of her husband, she got to know that she could take up a job with the bank. However, since she was not qualified enough, she requested the bank to provide her with any suitable employment.
From there Pratiksha started her career as a sweeper, at the age of 20 at the Mumbai branch of SBI. She started a day by working for two-three hours, mainly sweeping the branch premises, dusting furniture and cleaning restroom rooms. On the other hand, she also had to take care of her little son, and eventually, started working odd jobs to support her family in Mumbai. By watching people working
at the office, she got inspired and realized that she could achieve more too. She set a target and a goal and started putting all her efforts and determination into her work. She knew that she had to clear her Class X examinations to go ahead with better job prospects. With the help of bank assistants and support of the family, she earned her Class X degree and eventually other educational qualifications which took her ahead in her career.
Finally, Pratiksha was promoted from sweeper to clerk, however, she didn’t stop there. Her work and determination landed her the coveted AGM position. Because of her devotion, determination and dedication, the bank also honoured her for her outstanding performance and
accomplishment.
Apart from this achievement, Pratiksha also graduated from a naturopathy program in 2021 and has decided to use her education to help others, women and girls like her, after retirement.
In a country of male predominance, especially in the banking sector, Pratiksha’s story is one of exceptional grit and determination and inspiration too.
