Manimegalai’s Story: From Family Duties to Career Dreams

After being blessed with her second child, Manimegalai Rajendiran (Mani) decided to quit her job and dedicate nearly a decade to raising her children and managing her household. While the decision may have been difficult, she emphasizes that there was no regret. “I was happy I could be there whenever my family needed me.”

But the longing to return to her professional roots never faded. As her children grew up, so did the awareness of their mother’s sacrifice and their support for her. “They encouraged me to pursue my ambitions again,” she shares. However, she knew that a decade-long break in the IT industry can leave you lost with all the advancements it has made. Rebuilding her skill set became Mani’s primary focus, during which she fulfilled a long-time wish to obtain an MBA in Finance.

“Returning to work was not my first thought. But I was sure about my learning abilities and adaptability and thought it was best to start there.”?

Despite her efforts, Mani was still apprehensive. “It had been a long time since I last gave a job interview,” she says, recalling that she was preparing for the worst. Had she done enough to present herself as a valuable asset? Most importantly, would any employer even take a chance on someone with such a significant gap in their resume? Amidst these inhibitions, Mani heard about Beyond Your Break from a former colleague.??

Bounteous x Accolite ’s flagship return-to-work program, ‘Beyond Your Break’ is tailor-made for returning professionals like Mani. This exclusive program offers individuals who have taken extended breaks from their careers a pathway back into the workforce. “After my interview, everything seemed to fall in place,” she says, remembering her experience during onboarding. “It felt like destiny was playing its role!”

With comprehensive technical training, mentorship, and an opportunity to cross-skill, Mani is currently thriving at Bounteous x Accolite as a Senior Business Analyst. She highlights that the flexible work-from-home option was crucial in helping her balance her professional life with her family responsibilities. But above all else, the respect given to her by her peers and the company’s [Bounteous x Accolite’s] belief in her abilities reassured Mani and eased her transition.

“Being back after a long break, I was given the required training and opportunities and treated equally under all circumstances,” Mani says.

“All of us are talented in one way or another, but it’s a loss if there is no opportunity to showcase it,” Mani says. “Because of Beyond Your Break and Bounteous x Accolite, I can look forward to a successful future!”

Looking to bounce back after taking a break from your professional life? Or do you know someone who’s seeking an opportunity to return to the workforce?

Find out more about Beyond Your Break here.