Never stop sailing - An inspiring story of Nelson D’souza (Khyaal Community Member)

“I have always worked hard and was committed towards my goals. In fact, I used to work night shifts at the Colaba YWCA International Guest House while I was pursuing my degree. I never let my job interfere with my studies and eventually I was able to balance them both. After completing BSC, I spent some time working at Garware Club House, CST. 

In 1982, I moved to Saudi Arabia to build a career. I worked as an Admin at King Khalid National Guard Hospital in Jeddah. While I worked there I discovered a new interest. I found out that I have a soft corner for teaching. On campus, there were many doctors and nurses who had children and were looking for teachers who would come home for tuition. It was a dream come true scenario for me. Post work shift, I thought of making the best use of this opportunity. I started going to a few houses for tuition and parents loved the way I taught their children. Many people wanted me to visit their house for tuition but due to lack of time, I couldn’t take them all. 

 After long 18 years, I came back to India in 2000. Frankly speaking, it was very easy for me to think that I have earned enough money and I don’t need to work anymore. But, I didn’t allow that thought to come to my mind ever because throughout the years my commitment and willingness to work were at their highest peak. So me sitting just idle was simply out of question. I got a chance to work at Knight Frank (India) Ltd. as a Facility Manager and retired from there in the year 2012.   

Well, doing nothing was not my thing and that’s why post-retirement, I began taking tuition and guiding 9th & 10th std students. I got these home tuition contacts through my wife. Not boasting about myself but I walk from the IC colony to Dahisar every day to take tuition. You might be wondering did I continue this in COVID as well. Yes, I did and actually, nobody stopped me. I followed my same daily routine irrespective of the situation around with all the necessary precautions. 

Now, at the age of 70, besides teaching, I love gardening, reading novels, listening to the news, collecting stamps and solving crossword puzzles. My final piece of advice for all my elderly peers is to never stop sailing and always keep your mind and body active.” - Nelson D’souza (Khyaal Community Member)