A Journey of Hope, Determination, and Success
In January 2025, Azad Ali Mirza was honoured with the OE24 Next Generation Award: Integration and Inspiration. His remarkable journey from harsh conditions to success embodies hope and determination, making him a role model for many. But how did Azad reach this point? His story is one of resilience, opportunity, and ambition.
From the Streets to Stability
Born in India, on the footpath of a railway station, Azad Ali Mirza’s early years were marked by struggle. With a starving mother, no home, and the tragic loss of his father in a rail accident, survival seemed like a miracle. Seeking refuge under railway platforms and parked buses, Azad’s childhood was far from easy.
Everything changed when Father Xavier Arul Raj, founder and president of Missionaries of the Word, offered him a place in a charity hostel. This provided him with safety, food, and care - an opportunity that would alter his destiny.
Austrian volunteers visiting the hostel later established ZUKI (Zukunft für Kinder - Future for Children), an initiative that supported Azad and other children with education, nutritious meals, and medical care. From 2005 to 2018, he thrived in ZUKI’s Kolkata village, embracing education as his path forward.
“I got to live the normal life of a child.”
Education: The Gateway to the Future
With a passion for engineering, Azad studied electrical subjects and technical disciplines, convinced that engineering is the future. His dedication caught the attention of Gerald Schweighofer during an event. Impressed by Azad’s intelligence and determination, Gerald offered him a job at the HS Timber sawmill in Sebeș, Romania.
In July 2022, Azad arrived in Romania and joined the maintenance department at HS Timber, eager to turn his dreams into reality.
Azad quickly engaged himself in every aspect of the business, learning the processes behind timber production. In 2023, after the sale of the Sebeș sawmill, he moved to HS Timber Productions Reci, where he gained insights into various departments, including log management, cutting, pellets production, planing, and stock management.
By 2024, Azad’s responsibilities expanded - he became a calculation specialist for Acon Timber, HS Timber’s Argentinian sawmill, working closely with colleagues in the Vienna headquarters.
“Thanking Mr. Gerald Schweighofer for offering this job offer because of these golden opportunities my life has changed a lot and also for everyone depended on my life”.
A Vision for the Future
Azad has ambitious plans, divided into professional and personal goals:
Professional Goals:
- Develop expertise in timber calculations, material estimation, and structural analysis.
- Optimise calculation processes, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
- Stay updated on timber industry trends and sustainability practices.
Personal Goals:
- Create a better life for himself and his loved ones.
- Support his mother in every possible way.
- Build a home for his mother.
- Help underprivileged children and those in need.
- Open a school for poor students.
- Establish an old-age home for abandoned elderly individuals.
- Travel the world and continue learning.
Congratulations, Azad!
His story proves that with dedication and the right support, incredible transformations are possible. Stay tuned for more updates on his inspiring journey!
Azad's Story
