Mentor

Womaniean Magazine | 25 Inspiring Women of July–August 2026 Nirmala Pant’s journey is one shaped by courage, discipline, compassion, creativity, and service. Born and brought up in Dehradun, she has built a meaningful life as a teacher, writer, poet, dancer, storyteller, anchor, and mentor. As the youngest daughter of a defence personnel and sister to two brave brothers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation, she carries their courage as a lifelong source of inspiration. A Teacher With More Than Three Decades of Experience A teacher by profession for over 32 years, Nirmala began teaching as early as Class 3. Over the years, she became much more than an educator to hundreds of students, many of whom lovingly call her “Maa.” As a proud mother of two sons, she believes that motherhood extends beyond one’s own family—it is also about nurturing, guiding, and standing beside young lives. Leadership, Creativity and Student Life During her school years, Nirmala served as a Guide Captain, National Kho-Kho Player, School Vice-Captain, and House Captain. Her passion for creativity also led her to participate and win recognition in dance, singing, speeches, debates, Kaavya Sammelans, story writing, and poetry. Throughout her teaching career, she embraced numerous responsibilities, including Staff Secretary, Discipline In-charge, House Captain, Anchor, Choreographer, Olympiad In-charge, and NTSE In-charge. Her dedication to discipline and student relationships earned her the Best Class Teacher Award, while her class was recognised as the Best Disciplined Class. She has also received a Long Service Award. Recognised for Teaching and Literary Contributions One of Nirmala’s most cherished milestones came in 2009, when she received the Best Teacher Award for Sidhli District, organised by Air India and Navbharat Times at the national level. In 2010, her story “Wo Anmol Tohfa” was awarded in a competition organised by Dainik Jagran, adding another memorable achievement to her literary journey. Her creative work has continued to receive appreciation through stories, poems, and write-ups published in various magazines and newspapers. She was also selected for the MOMS Talent Hunt Show in both the dance and singing categories. Unfortunately, she could not participate because of her father’s serious illness—a moment that reflected the values of family and responsibility that have remained central to her life. Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom Beyond teaching, Nirmala has devoted herself to counselling and supporting students and parents. Drawing from more than three decades of teaching experience, she has counselled hundreds of students and parents free of cost, helping them navigate academic, emotional, and personal challenges. While she does not hold a professional counselling degree, her years as a teacher have given her experience in understanding people, listening to their concerns, and guiding them with empathy. A Life Dedicated to Family and Service In 2019, Nirmala made another deeply personal choice. Nearly ten years before her retirement, she resigned from her teaching service to devote herself to her ageing parents. It was a decision rooted in love, responsibility, and gratitude, and she considers the years spent caring for them among the most meaningful chapters of her life. Continuing Her Passion for Learning and Creativity Nirmala’s passion for learning and creativity continues even today. She actively participates in online and offline competitions and continues to receive recognition. Her first book of poems is currently in progress and planned for publication by 2027. She is also working on a book of real-life stories based on the heart-touching experiences of people she encountered throughout her journey as a teacher and counsellor. Success Through Compassion and Discipline For Nirmala, success has never been about titles alone. It is about honesty, hard work, discipline, compassion, and the lives she has touched. Her greatest reward remains beautifully simple: wherever her students go in life, a small part of their “Maa” goes with them. 25 Inspiring Women of July–August 2026 Womaniean Magazine proudly celebrates Nirmala Pant as one of the “25 Inspiring Women of July–August 2026”, honouring her extraordinary journey of education, selfless service, creativity, family values, and the countless lives she has guided with love and compassion. Quote “Wherever her students go in life, a small part of their ‘Maa’ goes with them.” Social Media Instagram: @nirmalababli Womaniean Magazine Editorial Note Nirmala Pant’s story reflects the power of a life dedicated to education, family, creativity, and service. Her journey from a teacher and mentor to a writer, poet, storyteller, and counsellor demonstrates how meaningful influence can continue far beyond the classroom. Featured In Womaniean Magazine | 25 Inspiring Women of July–August 2026 Website: www.womaniean.com