Here's our first student for this series.

A 14-year-old boy from Hiangtam Lamka, who suffered from mild intellectual disability, was struggling to keep up with his mainstream school curriculum. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to receive the special attention he needed, causing him to fall behind in class and lose interest in school. Eventually, he dropped out and stopped socializing altogether.

It was at this point that his mother, an unemployed single parent, decided to seek help from The Malsawm Initiative (TMI), a school for children with special needs. In 2015, Mr. Thanglalven @ Vena enrolled at TMI, where he was initially very shy and reserved. His reading and writing skills were equivalent to those of a Class A student in a mainstream school, while his math skills were on par with a Class II student.

However, at TMI, he was given the space and support he needed to develop at his own pace. He received appropriate services, including physiotherapy, which helped him tremendously. Over time, his reading and writing skills improved significantly, and he was able to write complex sentences with ease. His handwriting and speed also improved, both in English and his mother tongue. Most importantly, his self-esteem grew, and he began to actively participate in classroom and school activities.

According to his mother, Mr. Thanglalven @ Vena now looks forward to going to school. He is able to read subtitles on TV, eagerly awaits the newspaper in the morning to read about his favorite football team, and fully communicates with his friends through WhatsApp. His WhatsApp DP and Status show him and his friends enjoying each other's company, a testament to the progress he has made.

Mrs. Dicky Tonsing, his mother, is now beaming with pride at her son's achievements. Thanks to TMI, Mr. Thanglalven @ Vena has been able to overcome his challenges and thrive.

Now a man of 22 years, Vena has been a full time volunteer at TMI for over three years. A man with few words and a kind soul, he is very gentle and communicates softly with children. His dedication is evident in the patience he shows when working with children. He supports teachers in the classrooms and school activities. He is responsible for chaperoning students in their school van as well. As the while pursuing his studies under Open Basic Education of NIOS at TMI Study Centre.