Tips for true success: Saba Firdous

Ranchi, June 19: Grit, hard work and a stroke of luck has changed 15-year-old betel seller Saba Firdous’s life.

Ever since this matric topper’s background came to the fore through a news article in The Telegraph, adulation and encouragement has poured in.

Secretary of her school — Idrisia Tanzeem Urdu Middle School — Umar Bhai, today handed her a letter written in English by a student of Class V, Saba Nasreen from Ghatshila in East Singhbhum.

Nasreen wrote a congratulatory note stating: “I want to know the secret of your doing so well in the examination. I want to become a lecturer in Oxford University. Your guidance will help me in achieving my goal.”

Firdous admitted the letter had pleasantly surprised her.

“I shall write to her. I am still in a daze that of all the people she is seeking my advice,” she said adding that perseverance is the key to success.

Firdous’ alma mater has also planned to organise a lecture at the school where Saba would be speaking to students about how to prepare for examinations methodically. The lecture would take place sometime later this week.

“I still sit in the betel shop. My customers, who earlier did not bother to look at me, now recognise me and wish me well in life. Some of my local customers even want me to suggest ways so that they can advise their children about ways to improve their performance in school,” said the girl.

Meanwhile, Delhi consultant Qaiser N.K. Jani, who has promised to help Firdous achieve her dream of becoming a doctor, received several congratulatory messages across the world for coming forward to help the girl.

“I am deluged by messages, even from people abroad, appreciating my gesture to help a girl who has grit and determination,” Jani said.