From humble beginnings to the national stage, Ayonto Bala Mahato's journey reads like a script from a feel-good film.

Born into a poverty-stricken indigenous family in Sirajganj's Raiganj upazila, she spent her childhood in a mud-walled hut topped with a tin roof. Her parents, both labourers, worked tirelessly, earning barely enough to put food on the table.

But then, football stepped in and changed everything.

At just 16, left-winger Ayonto is set to represent Bangladesh in two FIFA friendly matches in Dubai on February 26 and March 2, having flown to the UAE with the squad yesterday.

Her selection stems not only from her undeniable talent but also from head coach Peter Butler's decision to opt for a younger squad. Following a player-coach dispute, 18 senior players from the SAFF Women's Championship-winning team last year in Nepal were left out, creating opportunities for fresh faces like Ayonto.

Her inspiring ascent to the top has sent ripples of joy across the village of Grothita.

The daughter of farmer Monilal Mahato, Ayonto discovered football on the fields of her local primary school. Despite the struggles they faced, her family always encouraged her passion.

"My sister has loved football since childhood, so we enrolled her in an academy in the village three years ago... We found out about her selection a few days ago," her brother, Joy Kumar Mahato, told The Daily Star, with pride evident in his voice.

That academy was Nimgachhi Promila Football Academy, where Ayonto's remarkable potential quickly caught the attention of scouts. While still in the sixth grade, she earned a coveted spot at the prestigious BKSP.

Life, however, was not easy for her family, as they earned only around Tk 600 a day. Witnessing their relentless struggle, Joy took on a job in a local shop to support the family -- after Monilal became unable to work due to ill health -- and to contribute to his sister's dreams.

Despite these hardships, Ayonto flourished. After completing her initial training at BKSP and putting up a dazzling show in the BKSP Cup held earlier this year, she became a strong candidate for a spot in the national team, informed BKSP assistant coach Mahbubur Rahman Litu.

"If she stays in the national camp for 3-4 years, her future will be bright," opined Litu.

For Ayonto, this breakthrough is "beyond expectations," and success is not merely a personal triumph; it is a monumental milestone for the Mahato community.

"As a poor farmer, my only dream was to feed my family. But my daughter has given us something greater -- hope," her father Monilal expressed.

Uzzal Kumar Mahato, a local social worker, said, "No one from the Mahato community [in North Bengal] has ever played for the national team. She is the first, and we are immensely proud."