“The first thing that excited me was transforming from being a student to exploring this space.”
For Amar, a key part of Rubaroo’s journey for the past five years, this transformation from a participant to a changemaker began with curiosity. Coming from a rural background, Amar first encountered Rubaroo through the Agaaz-e-Baatcheet program in 2017. He was introduced to the concept of a “workshop” – a seemingly simple term that opened new worlds. Initially, he was just curious, eager to learn. But over time, he experienced Rubaroo from a completely different angle.
Amar’s commitment quickly turned into deeper involvement. Within a year of interning, he became a Youth Coordinator. His role allowed him to co-facilitate programs, mentor youth, and even manage applications for Rubaroo’s Changemakers program. “Getting 800 applications for Changelooms and Changemakers 2020 will always stay with me,” Amar recalls with pride. This moment stands out as a milestone in his journey – a testament to the reach and importance of creating opportunities for youth.
Working with young people within the community
Amar passionately believes that Rubaroo’s essence lies in opening doors for young people. Reflecting on his time at the YRC Community Centre, he shares, “Identifying gaps in opportunities, and addressing them through community programs like job fairs and skill-building workshops, is essential. Imagine a child seeing a microscope for the first time – those small things spark curiosity and drive them to excel.” For Amar, the impact of Rubaroo’s work goes beyond job opportunities; it’s about instilling a sense of agency in youth, fostering resilience, and helping them find their voice.
As a Youth Coordinator, he witnessed firsthand the impact on participants who, in turn, became leaders and change agents within their own communities. His satisfaction stems from seeing these young changemakers bring Rubaroo’s values to life in various capacities outside the organization.
Exploring beyond social work
Over the years, Amar’s journey with Rubaroo has not only shaped his career but also strengthened his personal resilience. “Every mission I apply for prioritizes resilience, and every time my application is screened, my time with Rubaroo stands out,” he says. This resilience, fostered by his experiences and responsibilities, has prepared him for ambitious endeavors – including an upcoming mission as an analog astronaut.
Amar attributes this growth to Rubaroo’s ethos of valuing participants’ journeys over mere program outcomes. This belief in the individual’s potential has been a powerful catalyst in his life, giving him the confidence to explore challenging roles beyond social work.
Navigating conflicts as a young person
Looking back on his experiences, Amar identifies conflict management as one of his most valuable skills learned at Rubaroo. “Conflict exists within every individual, regardless of background,” he explains. “Rubaroo taught me how to recognize and resolve conflict constructively – a skill essential to well-being.” As a facilitator, he learned that guiding others toward solutions, rather than providing answers, is a powerful tool for development. “Facilitation is an ongoing process; it’s about empowering others to find their own answers,” he adds.
Amar’s time at Rubaroo also highlighted the importance of seeing connections across different contexts and collaborating rather than working in isolation. He sees these insights as pivotal, especially as he prepares for his mission simulation – a role that demands courage, endurance, and a balanced perspective.
Slow and steady impact
Reflecting on Rubaroo’s broader impact, Amar sees its emphasis on gender equality, interfaith dialogue, and youth empowerment as transformative. Through community centers, workshops, and mentorship programs, Rubaroo fosters a culture of lifelong learning and self-discovery. “The impact is not fast or slow; it’s steady,” he notes. “We work with adolescents who now strive for financial independence and meaningful roles in society.”
Amar’s story with Rubaroo is one of growth, mentorship, and lasting change. As he steps into new horizons, he remains grateful for the grounding that Rubaroo has provided. Moving forward, he envisions contributing as an alumni observer in workshops, bridging the gap between past and future participants, and continuing to champion opportunities for rural-based projects.
For Amar, Rubaroo has not only been an organization but a way of life – one that champions social consciousness, resilience, and the belief in a better tomorrow for all.
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