Abhimanyu, a young professional working as a book distributor, shares a compelling story of transformative change and empowerment as he found a safe haven at Rubaroo’s Youth Resource Center (YRC). A community space that provided an opportunity for young people, YRC became a hub for discussions, for ideas to be conceived and worked on. Let’s hear what Abhimanyu has to say about his journey.
How it all began
They say, it’s all about taking the first step – and that’s what Abhimanyu did when his friend invited him to YRC for computer classes. Mistaking it for just another class, Abhimanyu stepped into a world of whole new possibilities. He recalls, “Jab main intermediate mein tha, dost ne bola ki YRC mein computer classes hore, join karle.”
Upon entering YRC and exploring its facilities, Abhimanyu became an active member of the centre and volunteered for several events and workshops. He shares, “That’s how I became a facilitator, and helped bring more young people into the fold for about a year.”
Overcoming his inhibitions, Abhimanyu sailed on a journey that helped him professionally and personally as he maneuvered challenges and understood the world around.
Growing patience and advocating for Girl Education:
Reflecting on his early days, Abhimanyu admits, “Pehle toh kafi arrogant tha, ladai karta tha, par yaha mujhe logo ne samjha aur maine patience develop kiya.” The nurturing outlook of the YRC gradually shifted his outlook, turning once aggressive demeanor into a more empathetic and reflective one. From there on, Abhimanyu participated in different programmes such as Safarnama where he explored the issues around girl education in his community. He began observing the societal restrictions imposed on girl education, and the deep-rooted nature of gender bias.
“Maine community ke logo ko samjhane ki koshish ki aur bataya kyu yeh exposure zaruri hai.”
Over time, Abhimanyu became a confident and articulate communicator within his community, fostering healthy relationships, and expanding his social circles. He credits Safarnama programme for honing his leadership and organisational skills that has helped in both personal and professional front.
Importance of safe spaces and encouraging his friends to join
Despite some uncertainty about how widely these messages reach within his community, Abhimanyu continues to advocate for change and girl education and remains hopeful.
“Mujhe nhi pata community mein pura ho raha hai ya nhi. But mai yeh keh sakta hu ki jo log participate kar rahe hai, unme zarur ho raha. Stressful life mein ek aisi safe space ka hona zaruri hai jaha hum gender, interfaith ya koi bhi cheez ko fun way mein samajh sakte hai. Aur isliye aasha hai ki Rubaroo apna gender art gallery ka campaign continue kare aur awareness badhaye yeh topic ki.”
Abhimanyu has used the platform to encourage his friends to join the organisation by sharing his story, and is eager to contribute as and when required.
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