In a world that often writes off dreams due to age, ability, or circumstance, there are rare individuals who rewrite that narrative — with grit, grace, and an unbreakable spirit. One such story is that of Nisa Unnirajan, a 40-year-old mother from Thiruvananthapuram, who turned her challenges into stepping stones to success in the civil services.

A Dream Delayed, Not Denied

Unlike many civil service aspirants who begin their preparation in their early twenties, Nisa’s journey started at 35 — a time when many would hesitate to chase such an intense goal. Juggling a full-time job, two young daughters, and a hearing disability, she began nurturing her civil services ambition quietly, steadily, and with incredible resilience.

The Balancing Act

Her path was anything but easy. With two children, 11-year-old Nandana and 7-year-old Thanvi, and a demanding professional life, Nisa’s days were packed. Yet, she carved out time to study — often late into the night, supported by her husband Arun, a software engineer, and her parents, Unnirajan and Jayasree. Her father, a retired police clerk, and her mother stood by her with unwavering belief in her capabilities.

The Power of Persistence

Seven attempts. That’s how many times Nisa tried before she cleared the Civil Services Examination in 2024, securing a spot under the disabled category with a rank of 1000. Where others may have given up, she persevered, driven by a purpose far greater than herself — to serve, to uplift, and to break barriers.

A Beacon of Hope

Her training at a private academy in Thiruvananthapuram played a key role in her success. She found inspiration in Kottayam sub-collector Ranjith, who also lives with a hearing impairment. Nisa immersed herself in biographies, motivational videos, and real-life stories, building a mental world where success was not just possible — it was inevitable.

More Than a Personal Victory

Nisa’s achievement is not just hers alone. It echoes in the hearts of every woman who delayed her dreams for family, every individual with a disability told to “settle,” and every late bloomer who dared to dream big. Her story is one of hope, of rising not despite the odds, but because of them.

Now, as she steps into the role of an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Nisa hopes to serve the nation with compassion, strength, and empathy — qualities life has already trained her in.

Because sometimes, the fiercest leaders emerge not from privilege, but from perseverance.