Thrivell Strives For Success Despite Disability
For 16-year-old Thrivell Kartika Lal, having a hearing impairment did not hinder him from achieving his life goals.
Yesterday marked his first milestone achievement when he received the third prize in his form and the award for the Best Inclusive Education student during the Swami Vivekananda College graduation ceremony yesterday.
Like any teenager Thrivell had faced a lot of challenges, but he was adamant in accomplishing greater things.
“My school is advanced in the e-learning system so when I started in Form Three (Year 9) I had no interpreters and due to my disability I could only read from the board,” he said.
“This year he said he was blessed with an interpreter Ms Buliyawa and she helped me a lot.
“I had to sacrifice and work hard by waking up at three o’clock to study.
“Sometimes students look at me differently and feel sorry for me, but I know my disability is not a barrier for me in trying to continue what I want to strive for in the future.”
He added his parents supported him in his education and he attributed his achievements to them.
“My parents were always worrying about me specially sending me to a normal school, but they were very supportive and I am truly blessed to have them,” he added.
“They taught me to be strong and always advised me to do whatever I set my mind too.”
The aspiring architectural designer’s favourite subjects are Mathematics, Physics and Technical Drawing, and loves playing soccer.
His message: “With disability nothing is impossible; don’t let anything be a barrier to your aspirations.”
Edited by Caroline Ratucadra
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