Sharanya Pabba has bagged Asia's Inspiring Debut Author Award on Software Industry

My Cancer Journey

I do not claim to have suffered the most; there are always those who endure far greater struggles and those who have had it easier. But what matters is how we choose to rise despite our circumstances.

Life has a way of testing us in ways we never expect. My story is not one of complaint but of resilience, hope, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit.

Just as I was settling into my professional career at the age of 23, a storm hit me that I never saw coming, I was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. The news shattered me, yet deep within, I knew I had to fight. The battle was brutal.

The pain was relentless, but so was my will to survive. A year of suffering, treatments, and silent prayers followed, but my spirit remained unbroken. Within two years, I had won the battle against cancer. I was back to living, breathing, and dreaming again. But my experience with cancer had left me with a deep understanding of the emotional turmoil that patients go through. I realized how important mental strength was, during physical suffering.

Many people give in to depression during such battles, but I had learned that the mind plays a crucial role in healing. Determined to make a difference, I started counselling cancer patients around me. Whether it was through personal interactions or social media chats, I made it my mission to be there for those who needed strength. I shared my journey, lent a listening ear, and became a beacon of hope for many.

Another unexpected health crisis struck. I contracted COVID-19, and it took a severe toll on my body. My lungs were damaged by 60%, and the situation seemed bleak. But I had faced worse before, and I refused to let this break me. It was yet another testament to the strength of a determined mind and the power of self-motivation.

My passion for helping others extended beyond cancer patients. Understanding the struggles of young students stepping into the IT industry, I began offering free soft skills training and career counselling. It wasn’t just about preparing them for jobs; it was about equipping them with the confidence and resilience needed to thrive in life.

Throughout my journey, I have come to realize that money, success, and material possessions mean little if we do not have the moral support, self-belief, and courage to face life's adversities. This understanding drives me to continue my mission of counselling and mentoring. Whether someone reaches out for career guidance, emotional support, or simply a few words of encouragement, I never hesitate to extend my help.

It has been 14 years since I started my career as a software professional. Alongside my professional journey, I have dedicated the past eight years to teaching, and mentoring individuals from all walks of life. My story is not about the hardships I have faced; it is about the strength I have discovered within myself and the hope I have been able to share with others.

My Author Journey
With over 14 years of experience in the software industry, my journey as an author began with a simple yet powerful goal, to make complex IT concepts approachable, relatable, and even enjoyable. I noticed a gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world understanding, especially among students and early professionals stepping into the IT world. That’s when I decided to bridge that gap through storytelling.

Rather than writing dry technical manuals, I chose to bring characters, humor, and imagination into the world of IT service management. My books use fictional narratives, fairy-tale formats, and real-life analogies to simplify structured frameworks like ITIL and agile practices. The idea was never to lecture, but to engage, to help readers connect with concepts not just intellectually, but emotionally and practically.

Over the years, my passion for teaching and mentoring has naturally extended into writing. Each book I write is shaped by my experiences, both in the industry and in training others, thinking as Human side of IT industry. I write for the students who are trying to make sense of their first job offer, and for anyone who wants to learn without feeling overwhelmed.

This author journey is not just a side project; it is a meaningful extension of my professional identity. Through my books, I aim to spark curiosity, encourage practical thinking, and make the software world just a bit more human with values and trust.

Thank you Note to Asia Awards Org

I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the award “Asia’s Inspiring Debut Author Award on Software Industry” from the Asia Awards, powered by the World Research Congress.

This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a celebration of the stories, struggles, and real-life learnings from the dynamic world of IT and software. My journey as an author began with a simple goal, to translate 14 years of hands-on industry experience into stories and knowledge that students and professionals can truly relate to and learn from.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to the jury and organizers for acknowledging this vision. Special thanks to my mentors, peers, readers, and the many unsung heroes of IT whose everyday efforts have inspired the pages of my book.

This award motivates me to continue writing, sharing, and empowering more minds in the industry.

With gratitude,

Sharanya Pabba