NDTV

Pune, Jun 27: A girl from a slum in Pune has topped the Maharashtra SSC examination this year.

Shahnaaz Magdoom, who scored 95.6 per cent, lives in a slum colony with her mother and younger sister.

Shahnaaz lost her father when she was just four-year-old and her mother had to fight hard to support her two children.

Circumstances made Shahnaz all the more determined to prove herself.

"I used to get up early in morning for praying and then study. I worked very hard. I was sure my name would be there in the merit list," said Shahnaaz.

Aiming high

Shahnaaz 's next goal is to become a doctor and already offers of help are pouring in from proud relatives and teachers.

"We will do whatever we can and leave the rest to fate," said Sajid Khan, Shahnaaz's uncle.

"We will go out of the way to make sure that this girl realizes her dreams," said PA Inamdar, Director, Maharashtra Cosmpoolitan Education Society.

It will take some time and lots of hard work for Shahnaaz to realize her dream, but she is sure her determination will see her through.