Summary:
This is the inspiring journey of Rahul Kurudigi, a young engineer from a small town in Karnataka, born with a locomotor disability. Despite early medical challenges and a tough career pivot, Rahul didn’t let his disability define him. With resilience, self-learning, and support from Youth4Jobs Foundation, he transitioned into the IT sector and landed a coveted ₹18 LPA role at J.P. Morgan. His story is a powerful reminder that determination and the right support can turn any obstacle into opportunity.
Rahul Kurudigi grew up watching his father work the fields and his mother teach at school. Born with a locomotor disability, Rahul made himself a promise early on: “I will never let my disability define my dreams.”
At 26, Rahul has kept that promise—landing a Software Engineer role at J.P. Morgan with an annual package of ₹18 lakh.
‘Challenges were my companion from the start’
Rahul, a twin, was diagnosed with a disability at birth. By age one, he had undergone three major surgeries. But with supportive parents and teachers, school became his safe space. “I was active, enthusiastic, and treated like any other student,” he says. He even competed in javelin throw, defying stereotypes.
‘Engineering was my passion. But I had to pivot.’
He pursued Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Gogte Institute of Technology. But midway, he realized the physical demands of core electrical roles weren’t feasible. Instead of giving up, Rahul shifted to IT, teaching himself web development while working at Wipro.
That’s when he found Youth4Jobs Foundation.
‘Youth4Jobs saw me—not my disability’
Youth4Jobs, a nonprofit empowering persons with disabilities, became a turning point. “The team constantly followed up, guided me, and referred me to four companies within a month,” says Rahul.
One referral changed his life: J.P. Morgan.
“I was shocked. A global firm like J.P. Morgan, and me—a boy with disability from a small town?” he says. “They didn’t just help with my resume. They gave me confidence. They saw my potential.”
Today, Rahul is excited about what lies ahead—not just for himself, but for others like him. “If my journey can inspire even one person to believe in themselves, it’s worth it,” he says.
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