Bengaluru, 8 March

Champakavathi, a 55-year-old former bus conductor with KSRTC, overcame numerous challengers to succeed in a male-dominated profession for 15 years. Navigating the bustling highways of Bengaluru, Chennai, and Tirupati, Champakavathi spent eight hours a day collecting tickets and ensuring passengers' safety.

Starting her career at 20 years of age, with three children to support, she embarked on this journey despite her limited qualifications. Initially intimidated by the complexities of the job and the demanding long-distance routes, she sought treatment at NIMHANS for her migraines, which took six months to subside.

Despite the initial hardships, she managed to provide for her children, get them good education and ensure that they are employed. Amid her triumphs, Champakavathi encountered adversity in the form of workplace gossip and unfounded accusations. A spinal cord injury altered her career trajectory, leading her to transition into an administrative role within the organisation.