Stories of Hope

Mohammed Yousuf: A Story of Triumph and Giving Back

At just two and a half years old, Mohammed Yousuf’s life took a challenging turn when he was afflicted by polio, leaving him physically disabled. His early years were marked by struggles and setbacks, but his determination and resilience would define his life’s journey.

Yousuf started school at the age of 11, joining the second standard. Despite the late start and constant mockery from peers, he pushed forward, passing his 10th grade and Intermediate exams. His hard work paid off when he secured a seat in a private engineering college after clearing the entrance test. In 1988, he graduated with a degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering, earning first-division marks with an impressive 69.8% average. He even passed the TOEFL exam with a score of 553, aiming to pursue higher education abroad.

Yet, his academic achievements didn’t shield him from the harsh realities of life. Struggling to find a job that matched his qualifications, he took up small roles, like working as a trainee engineer in Nacharam and a service engineer in Banjara Hills. Yousuf wrote to numerous government officials, including the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers, pleading for a suitable job, but his efforts were in vain. When opportunities continued to evade him, Yousuf set his sights on studying in the United States, where he believed his prospects would be brighter.

                                       

It was during this critical juncture that the Faiz-e-Aam Trust became a beacon of hope for him. The Trust not only helped Yousuf secure admission to Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, for a master’s program but also funded his first semester’s tuition and provided an air ticket to the US—a financial support totaling around ₹70,000. True to his character, Yousuf later repaid the entire amount to the Trust, a gesture that spoke volumes about his integrity and gratitude. In the US, Yousuf’s journey took a transformative turn. Inspired by his own struggles and keenly aware of the hardships faced by others with disabilities, he founded the Help Handicap Foundation, which later evolved into the Equally Able Foundation. This organization became a lifeline for countless individuals across the globe, providing aid for education, medical relief, and rehabilitation activities, including converting scooters into three-wheelers for better accessibility. In collaboration with the Faiz-e-Aam Trust, the foundation contributed approximately ₹13.75 lakhs towards various charitable initiatives. The partnership grew stronger as Yousuf’s foundation provided financial resources and referred cases for support, ensuring aid reached those in genuine need. Today, Mohammed Yousuf serves as a Research Specialist at the Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI) in Washington, DC. His story is one of resilience, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others. The Faiz-e-Aam Trust celebrates his success, recognizing him as an asset to any organization and pledging ongoing support to his noble mission through the Equally Able Foundation. Mohammed Yousuf’s journey from a young boy with polio to a global changemaker is a powerful reminder that adversity can be transformed into opportunity—and that acts of kindness can ripple through the world, creating lasting change.

Through Determination & Triumph

Real Stories, Real Impact.

Syeda Salva Fatima: Breaking Barriers, Soaring High
Syeda Salva Fatima is among the pioneering Muslim women in India to earn a Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL), proving that dreams have no limits. Her father, Syed Ashfaq Ahmed, initially could not imagine this possibility, but her determination changed everything.

It all began when her EAMCET coaching tutor asked her what she aspired to become. Without hesitation, she declared, “A Pilot.” While some dismissed her dream as unrealistic, her determination caught the attention of Janab Zahid Ali Khan of Siasat Daily and Faiz-e-Aam, who believed in her vision. With their financial and moral support, Salva joined Andhra Pradesh Aviation Academy in 2007 and worked tirelessly to achieve her goal.

Today, she is a fully qualified First Officer, flying high with Indigo Airlines. The next time you fly Indigo, you might just find Syeda Salva Fatima in the cockpit—a true inspiration for those who dare to dream big!

Dr. Syed Hasan: From Dreams to Reality
Dr. Syed Hasan’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of support. Starting from humble beginnings, he received unwavering encouragement from Faiz, who supported him from Grade I to Grade X. His academic excellence in Grade X earned him a free seat at MS Junior College, but Faiz continued to stand by him for all his academic needs.

Dr. Hasan’s determination paid off when he secured the 3rd rank in the medical entrance exam for the undivided state of Andhra Pradesh, earning a free seat at Osmania Medical College. Graduating with distinction in 2018, he went on to complete his post-graduation at NRCH, New Delhi, in 2022. Today, he serves as a Senior Resident at Owaisi Hospital and Research Centre in Hyderabad, embodying success and inspiring many.