Akhil’s journey with Rubaroo is filled with personal and professional milestones. From initially hearing about Rubaroo to becoming a full-time employee, his story reflects growth, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to social change.
The Early Days: A New Beginning
Akhil’s first encounter with Rubaroo dates back to 2021, when he heard about the organization through his friend Rakesh. At the time, Rubaroo was focused on addressing COVID-related issues, and like many others, Akhil was uncertain about what exactly Rubaroo did. However, his curiosity led him to attend an event at TCL, where he first saw Rubaroo’s approach to facilitation.
“I was wondering what Rubaroo was all about. It was all related to COVID precautions and vaccination awareness at that point. But what caught my attention was how the facilitators interacted with us. They didn’t hold power over us like a teacher in a traditional setting; instead, they sat in a circle and worked alongside us. That opened my eyes to how different Rubaroo was from other organizations,” Akhil recalls.
This event sparked his interest, and soon after, he became an intern at Rubaroo. What began as a humble start turned into a fulfilling and evolving journey.
From Intern to Resource Person: A Growing Passion for Education and Facilitation
Akhil’s path with Rubaroo wasn’t a straightforward one. He began as an intern, but as he grew more involved, he took on the role of a resource person, teaching academic subjects to participants. His connection with the organization deepened, especially after attending Rubaroo’s Gender Program and the Vartalap event. These experiences broadened his understanding of social issues.
“The way Rubaroo facilitates discussions and engages people is truly different. It’s not just about completing a program; it’s about how we approach people, interact with them, and create an inclusive environment. I started applying these values at Rubaroo and in my personal life,” says Akhil.
As a lecturer at Ellanki Engineering College, Akhil continued to teach and pursue his academic career. However, his passion for Rubaroo’s work and the opportunity to contribute to social change led him to apply for the ELP program, which he describes as life-changing.
The Life-Changing Impact of ELP
Akhil’s participation in Rubaroo’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) became pivotal. Before the program, he wasn’t conscious of issues like gender equality and interfaith understanding. However, ELP opened his eyes to the global significance of these topics.
“Before ELP, gender wasn’t something I ever considered an issue. But through Rubaroo, I realized that gender inequality is one of the root causes of many societal issues. It’s not just about women’s rights, but it impacts national and international issues,” Akhil reflects.
The program deeply influenced his worldview, helping him recognize the importance of consent and equality in reducing violence, especially against women. This newfound understanding not only changed how he viewed the world but also how he interacted with his family and community.
“I started doing tasks like cooking, cleaning, and sweeping, which weren’t traditionally considered ‘men’s work.’ It was challenging, but it was a way for me to break the stereotypes I had grown up with,” he shares.
He also began discussing menstruation openly with his family, something that was once considered taboo. This shift in perspective wasn’t just a personal one; Akhil also became an advocate for interfaith dialogue. Coming from a Hindu background, he initially harbored prejudices against other religions. However, through Rubaroo’s programs, he understood that all religions preach the same fundamental values.
“I used to blame other religions for societal issues, but after being part of Rubaroo’s AEB program, I realized that the root cause of many conflicts is not religion but how people interpret and communicate religious teachings. Now, I stand up against my friends when they dehumanize people based on their faith,” he says.
Impact Beyond the Classroom
One of the things Akhil believes Rubaroo excels at is its ability to inspire change among those who are open to it. While he acknowledges that not everyone is ready to embrace these ideas, the change is visible, especially among those who have had the opportunity to engage with the organization’s programs.
“I see the change in my cohort and the people around me. Some of them may not grasp the full depth of the issues, but they start thinking about them. Even if the change happens slowly, it’s happening,” Akhil notes.
Advice for Aspiring Change-Makers
Akhil’s journey from a curious intern to a passionate full-time employee at Rubaroo has taught him valuable lessons about change-making. He offers this advice to young individuals embarking on their own paths of social change:
“Don’t focus on short-term results. Change takes time, and it’s important to focus on long-term impact. Your work might not yield immediate results, but it will make a difference in the long run. It’s not about quick fixes; it’s about sustainable transformation,” he advises.
Conclusion: A New Chapter at Rubaroo
Today, Akhil is a full-time employee at Rubaroo, continuing to grow professionally and personally. His journey with the organization has shaped his career, values, passions, and how he sees the world. As he completes his probation period and continues his work in the community, Akhil remains excited and committed to making a difference through Rubaroo’s mission.
“I’m so excited to be part of Rubaroo. The organization has given me so much—personally, professionally, and emotionally. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me,” Akhil concludes.
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