Guided by two powerful Thirukurals, Kasiban’s journey is deeply rooted in the wisdom of Tamil philosophy:
"ஈன்ற பொழுதின் பெரிதுவக்கும் தன்மகனைச் சான்றோன் எனக்கேட்ட தாய்"
"A mother experiences supreme joy when she hears her son being praised as a noble and virtuous person."
The medical nursing student, Kasiban credits his mother as his pillar of strength. A single parent, she sacrificed endlessly to ensure he had access to education and opportunities. Her unwavering belief in humility and service inspired Kasiban to strive for excellence while remaining grounded.
"மகன்தந்தைக்கு ஆற்றும் உதவி இவன்தந்தை என்நோற்றான் கொல்எனும் சொல்"
“A son's support to his father, wondering about the hardships his father must have endured."
His father’s passing was a life-altering moment that shaped Kasiban’s perspective on healthcare. Witnessing the compassion of healthcare professionals who supported his family during those difficult times motivated him to pursue nursing.
From a young age, Kasiban was drawn to service, volunteering with organizations like Sri Agathiar Sanmarka Sangam and Thirumular Charity Organisation. These experiences shaped his understanding of empathy and community care.
“Nursing, for me, is more than a career – it’s a calling. It allows me to provide holistic care and support during people’s most vulnerable moments,” he shares. Kasiban’s personal experiences with healthcare professionals during his father’s illness cemented his belief in the transformative power of compassionate care.
Kasiban’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. The loss of his father brought emotional and financial challenges. Balancing part-time work and academics while grappling with grief tested his resilience. However, his unwavering determination, structured approach to learning, and support from friends, family, and professors helped him persevere.
He also leaned on his spirituality and charity work to stay grounded. “Helping others gave me purpose and reminded me that my struggles were part of a larger journey. Through faith and service, I found strength and healing,” he reflects.
Kasiban acknowledges the societal stereotypes that label nursing as a female-dominated profession.“Traditional masculinity norms often discourage men from pursuing nursing, but these perceptions need to change,” he says. He hopes his story will inspire more men to embrace caregiving roles and redefine societal norms.
Becoming the first nursing student to receive the prestigious Anugerah Pelajaran Diraja (Royal Education Award) is more than an achievement. To me, this award isn’t just a recognition of personal effort—it’s a love letter to my parents. It says: “Look, I carried your hopes. I transformed your pain into purpose.” This man is really something!
This recognition whispers a message to every single parent, every struggling family, and every child who carries the weight of expectations: Your dreams are valid. Your sacrifices matter. Love is the most powerful force of transformation.
“My mother, the cornerstone of my life, emerged as a beacon of strength after my father’s passing. She transformed personal loss into an opportunity for resilience and growth. Despite the financial and emotional challenges of being a single parent, she never compromised on my education or emotional well-being.
Her sacrifices were profound, extending far beyond financial provisions and became his emotional anchor, offering wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love during life’s most trying moments. Even amid her own struggles, she ensured our home remained a sanctuary of learning and healing.
Her practical support was multifaceted, helping Kasi manages his time, assisting with his studies, and teaching him the art of perseverance.
But Kasiban’s mother’s greatest lesson was about the essence of true success. She taught him that it isn’t measured by personal accolades, but by character, integrity, and the positive impact we create in the lives of others.
Asking about advice that he would be given to the upcoming generations; he has simplified it in few statements. Kasiban encourages young people to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Focus on manageable tasks to overcome daunting challenges.
- Seek support on trusted networks of friends, mentors, and counsellors.
- Embrace Vulnerability, see it as a strength, not a weakness, and learn from setbacks.
- Remember that success isn’t just personal achievement but the impact you create for others.
“Be kind to yourself and recognise that every small step forward is a testament to your strength and potential,” Kasiban concludes.