Challa Sri Gouri - From Hyderabad to Changemaker: The Power of Aspiration
Growing up in a modest household in Hyderabad, Challa Sri Gouri knew from an early age that education would be her path to a better future. When her father's health forced him to give up his job as an electrician, the financial burden fell on her mother, who began stitching clothes and offering tuitions to support the family. Despite the challenges, Gouri found strength in her family’s unwavering support — especially from her elder brother, who became her guide and mentor at every stage of her journey.
Determined to transform her circumstances, Gouri pursued her education through scholarships and sponsorships, even taking up tuitions herself while studying. "From childhood, I strongly believed education is the only way to help me grow and improve my family’s financial status," she shares.
In search of growth, Gouri applied for the Aspire Leaders Program, hoping to connect with diverse individuals and strengthen her leadership abilities. "I always wanted to be that changemaker who will pave a path for the coming generations," she says. Aspire offered her not just the skills, but the confidence to pursue this dream. The program taught her to lead with purpose, analyze situations from multiple perspectives, and most importantly, overcome the fear of judgment.
“My journey through Aspire was like a fairy tale,” she reflects. One of her proudest moments came when she applied to be a panelist at a personality development conclave. Surrounded by seasoned professionals, Gouri held her own — a testament to the confidence she gained through Aspire. "I learned the art of not giving up," she says. "Never hesitate to try — even when you're doubtful or when something feels impossible."
Today, Gouri is thriving both professionally and personally. She works as a Quality Assurance Engineer at Oracle, while also wearing many hats: motivational speaker, podcaster, writer, and changemaker. She was a finalist on The Inventor Challenge, a TV show streamed on Colors Infinity, and serves on the Alumni Executive Committee of Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology, her alma mater. Through her initiative Tinker Techie, Gouri is working to bring high-quality STEM education to underprivileged students. She also regularly delivers personality development sessions to groom young students.
“My focus is on grooming and mentoring young students, especially underprivileged girls, and helping them build strong educational and personal foundations," she says. "Aspire has helped me find a way to fulfill my passion."
Her message to future Aspire students:"Aspire is a bridge to your aspirations. Never compromise on your commitment and consistency."
Connect with Gouri: LinkedIn | Instagram: @challasrigouri
