Virender Gehlot was born with thalassemia. Today, he empowers rural youth with disabilities

Summary:

Born with thalassemia in a small village near Jodhpur, Virender Gehlot spent much of his life battling a chronic condition and social stigma. But he refused to let this define him. Today, he works as a Divyang Mitr with Youth4Jobs, helping others with disabilities access government schemes, training, and job opportunities. From regular hospital visits to becoming a role model in his community, Virender’s journey is one of quiet courage and transformation.

Full Story:

Virender Gehlot’s life began with a battle.
Born in a modest village outside Jodhpur, Rajasthan, he was diagnosed with thalassemia major as a child—a rare blood disorder that required blood transfusions every 15 days. His early years were spent shuttling between hospitals and home. At times, he would be too weak to attend school. At other times, he was judged or misunderstood for a condition he never chose.

“My brother would travel miles to get me blood. My mother never once gave up,” Virender recalls.

Despite his condition, he continued his education with quiet resilience. He knew his body was fragile, but his will was strong. The dream to be independent and to do something meaningful always burned bright inside him.

But the world wasn’t always kind.
People in his village often pitied him—or worse, saw him as incapable. Work opportunities were few. Information on disability schemes or support was even scarcer. Like many persons with disabilities in rural India, Virender was at risk of falling through the cracks.

That’s when he discovered Youth4Jobs Foundation. Through their community outreach, he was connected to the Divyang Mitra program—an initiative to train local youth with disabilities to become peer leaders.

For the first time, Virender found not just support—but purpose.

After completing his training, Virender began helping others in his area. He assisted young people with disabilities in getting their UDID cards, accessing skill training, and even finding jobs. He regularly visits homes, interacts with families, and raises awareness about government schemes and inclusion.

“I still go for blood transfusions every few weeks,” he says. “But now, I go back and help someone else stand on their feet.”

Today, Virender is a trusted name in his village—not as someone needing help, but someone giving it. His phone rings often with requests for guidance. He smiles, picks it up, and begins yet another conversation that could change someone’s life.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career?
Visit the Swarajability Job Portal today and explore hundreds of job opportunities tailored for persons with disabilities. Youth4Jobs and inclusive employers are here to help you achieve your dreams.

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How to Get Started

1. Register on Swarajability: Create a profile on the Swarajability Job Portal and upload your resume.
2. Explore Job Listings: Browse through hundreds of job opportunities tailored for persons with disabilities.
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4. Attend Training Programs: Enroll in Youth4Jobs’ skill development programs to enhance your employability.
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Students with Blindness Training at Youth4Jobs Training Centres for Persons with Disabilities