Mumbai, India – This World Athletics Day, HR Today presents the extraordinary journey of Ziya Naqshbandi – a National Gold Medal Winning Athlete and an award-winning HR Business Partner working with Jio – Larget Telecom and Digital Player in INDIA.
Ziya Naqshbandi: Determined, Disciplined and Devoted to Defy the Odds of Life
For certain individuals, the love for sports is an innate calling, igniting an exhilarating surge of adrenaline that evolves into a lifelong pursuit. However, fostering this passion in a society fraught with biases, particularly those against girls participating in sports, is a formidable challenge. Despite the prevailing societal resistance, a select few manage to surmount these obstacles and truly distinguish themselves in their chosen athletic endeavours. The story we present to you is that of an extraordinary individual who has transcended societal barriers to emerge as a champion in her chosen field, embodying the indomitable spirit reminiscent of the “Dangal sisters”.
The resistance is palpable, particularly in more traditional or conservative segments of society, making perseverance in the face of such discouragement a commendable virtue. Ziya Arif Naqshbandi, hails from the beautiful land of Kashmir and works with the Jio HR team as a Deputy Manager, Talent Management at Chandigarh, Punjab. She manages the lifecycle of almost 650 employees as part of her job profile. She exudes a spirit of perseverance as she describes her tryst with different kinds of sports. As a child growing up, Ziya was drawn towards sports and never missed an opportunity to participate in such activities. “Children study well to get good grades and build a career in their lives. I used to study well and was a topper almost throughout my childhood. The sole intention was to be able to participate in sports,” claims Ziya. Such was her dedication and determination, to be a sportsperson even though she did not have a family background in this field.
She used to love cycling and to fulfil this earnest desire, she did not find riding an oversized bicycle a matter of concern or embarrassment. Her journey of experimenting with different sports to identify what moves her heart and gives her fulfilment is worth sharing. It inspires us to find what we desire and then set out to achieve it. Her passion for sports deepened significantly in the 5th grade when she earned a spot on the cycle polo team, representing her state at a national-level game in Rajasthan. Little did she anticipate that this would mark the beginning of a journey brimming with challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering spirit.
“As I set out for Rajasthan, ready to compete in my first major event, my family, though slightly concerned, stood steadfast by my side, cheering and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. A day before the competition, a dog bite during the pre-tournament feast posed an unexpected obstacle. Despite having to take injections, I showed up the next day. Pedalling through the sandy terrain, I skilfully navigated the oversized bicycle with determination. The electric atmosphere and unique experience left an indelible mark on my heart,” proudly recalls Ziya.
The subsequent years unfolded as a whirlwind of sports activities and competitions. Ziya enthusiastically engaged in every conceivable sport at her school: volleyball, baseball, rugby, cricket, kho-kho and more. Yet, a pivotal moment in her athletic journey materialised when she discovered a district-level competition for a sport she knew little about — thang-ta, a form of martial arts.
Captivated by the rhythmic movements and the intensity of martial arts, she decided to take the plunge. Stepping into the arena, she gave her all and much to her astonishment, she clinched the bronze medal. This unexpected triumph sparked a newfound passion for martial arts within her.
Her sights were now set on the district and state levels. Immersed in the sport, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to preparing for these challenges. Through sheer determination and unwavering perseverance, she not only secured a spot in these competitions but also excelled, earning accolades at both district and state levels. After becoming a gold medallist at these events, her next step was the national stage, where she clinched a well-deserved silver medal.
Not content with silver, her ambition drove her to pursue gold at the national level. Undeterred, she intensified her training to overcome obstacles and refine her skills. Determined to push her limits, she opted to spar with male counterparts during practice, an idea met with resistance but her parents, especially her father, stood firmly by her side. Her journey continued and just when victory seemed within reach, tragedy struck a day before the event – she broke her wrist in an unfortunate accident.
Despite doctors recommending plastering her wrist and taking time off from the sport, she refused to abandon her dreams. Opting against the plaster until the end of the competition, she bravely competed in the nationals. With her wrist securely wrapped and numb to the pain, she forged ahead. The path to victory was fraught with challenges, and the competition proved more formidable than ever. Yet, she played with unparalleled grit and determination, defying the limitations of her fractured limb. As the final moments of the game unfolded, she stood on the podium, adorned with a National Gold Medal – a testament to her resilience and unyielding willpower in the face of adversity.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Ziya attributes her success to her incredible family. In a society where achieving national recognition in sports is a rare accomplishment, her family wholeheartedly embraced her dreams, offering encouragement and steadfast support. As the first member of her family to compete at the national level, she feels an overwhelming gratitude for the love and backing she received.
With each medal she earned and every game she played, Ziya carried the spirit of her family and the aspirations of a small town on her shoulders. Her story transcended the realm of aspiring athletes, becoming an inspiration for anyone facing adversity. She demonstrated that with passion, determination, and a strong support system, one could triumph over any obstacle.
To our surprise, Ziya mentions, “I have two sets of parents.” She elaborates that she lives in a joint family with her uncle, aunt, and grandparents. “My uncle and aunt love me like their daughter and I consider them my mom and dad as well,” she fondly reminisces. She adds, “In the ongoing geopolitical situations in Kashmir, it becomes extremely challenging not only to pursue a dream for sports but also excel in it.”
Her sports journey unfolded with more games, more medals and the enduring support of her wonderful family. The path was not always smooth, but it was laden with valuable lessons, unforgettable moments and a sense of accomplishment that transcended the glittering medals. Excelling academically, she completed her MBA in marketing and HR, earning a coveted position through campus selection at Reliance Jio.
Looking ahead to the future, Ziya acknowledges that her story is just beginning. There are more challenges to conquer, dreams to pursue and victories to celebrate. The oversized bicycle, the fractured limb, the dog bite and the challenges she faced – all are chapters in a story of resilience, passion and the unwavering pursuit of dreams.
“My heart is filled with gratitude for the journey that has shaped me into the person I have become – a warrior on and off the field, a symbol of inspiration for those who dare to dream and believe in the power of perseverance,” shares Ziya.
The once quiet town now reverberates with the cheers for a young girl who defied the odds and emerged victorious, not just as a national champion but as a beacon of hope for generations to come.
“There is nothing that I cannot do” is the mantra she lives by, emphasizing her belief in this for everyone out there.
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