When I first heard about Rubaroo in late 2019, I was at a crossroads in my life. Fresh out of my master’s program and working with a small NGO, I realized I craved deeper engagement and exposure in my professional journey. It was during this time of uncertainty that a serendipitous connection through my brother led me to Rubaroo, an organization dedicated to fostering youth development, gender equality, and interfaith dialogue. Little did I know, this would be the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life.
I vividly remember my first interaction with Rubaroo. The interviews were not just assessments of my skills but insightful conversations with the team—Hema, Uma, Manisha, and Shubhi—who were genuinely interested in my perspectives and aspirations. On January 3, 2020, I officially joined the team. I’ll never forget the warmth and openness that greeted me, a defining hallmark of Rubaroo’s culture. For instance, being encouraged to address colleagues by their first names instead of formal titles broke down hierarchical barriers and set the tone for an environment of mutual respect and collaboration.
The Changemakers Program and the Pandemic
My journey began with the Changemakers program, where I was introduced to the realities of on-ground social work. The initial three months were exhilarating. Alongside Amar, Neha, and Manisha, I visited communities, mobilized youth, and engaged in meaningful conversations. This hands-on experience was a stark contrast to the theoretical knowledge I had gained during my studies. I relished every moment, soaking in the camaraderie and learning from the diverse perspectives of my team.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 brought everything to a standstill. Suddenly, the vibrant, on-ground dynamics shifted to virtual spaces. Transitioning to an online format was daunting, especially for someone like me who had always associated social work with fieldwork. But Rubaroo’s resilience shone through as we adapted and reimagined our programs for the digital world. The Changemakers program resumed online in April, marking my initiation into a new realm of social engagement.
Deepening Understanding: Gender, Identity, and Youth Development
Working with Rubaroo has profoundly shaped my understanding of key social issues, particularly gender. Before joining the organization, my awareness of gender inequalities was limited to personal observations within my family and community. However, through programs like the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), I delved into the complexities of gender-based violence, patriarchy, and the intersectionality of identity and privilege.
One of the most eye-opening aspects was exploring topics like sexuality. Terms like LGBTQIA+ went from being vague acronyms to meaningful realities as I engaged in candid discussions about the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The experience not only deepened my knowledge but also equipped me to advocate for gender equality in my everyday interactions.
The Youth Resource Center (YRC) and Changelooms programmes further enriched my perspective on youth development. Working with adolescents initially seemed challenging. Communicating effectively with young minds required me to adjust my approach, ensuring that my words were not only clear but also sensitive to their experiences and perceptions.
I distinctly recall a three-day workshop Amar and I conducted at a center for adolescents. Their openness and eagerness to learn surprised me. They were not just passive participants; they actively questioned, reflected, and even shared their newfound insights with their families. Witnessing this ripple effect of change was immensely fulfilling and reinforced my belief in the power of youth-led transformation.
The Impact of Rubaroo
Over my three-year tenure, I observed Rubaroo’s impact firsthand. While change is a gradual process and not every participant internalizes the lessons immediately, there were numerous instances where young people demonstrated meaningful shifts in their thinking and behavior.
For example, discussions around menstrual health often broke societal taboos. I remember a male participant who courageously introduced the concept of menstrual cups to his family. While initial reactions were mixed, the dialogue he initiated eventually fostered greater understanding and acceptance.
Such stories highlight the importance of sustained engagement. While six months or a year may serve as an inception period, the real impact of Rubaroo’s work often unfolds over years as participants mature and integrate these learnings into their lives.
Reflections and Recommendations
Reflecting on my journey, I believe one of Rubaroo’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to create safe spaces for dialogue. However, there’s always room for growth. One idea I’d like to suggest is maintaining a connection with alumni through periodic gatherings or follow-up sessions. These could serve as platforms to gauge the long-term impact of our programs and provide participants with continued support and mentorship.
Another critical aspect is fostering open-mindedness among participants. When we approach sensitive topics, it’s essential to suspend judgment and engage with a willingness to learn. As I often tell new participants, “Come with an empty glass. Be ready to listen, understand, and grow.”
A Personal Transformation
Rubaroo has been more than just a workplace for me; it has been a space for personal growth and reflection. The values I’ve imbibed here continue to influence my interactions, decisions, and outlook on life. Today, as I share these experiences, I carry forward Rubaroo’s legacy of fostering empathy, inclusivity, and change.
To anyone embarking on their journey with Rubaroo, my advice is simple: embrace the process with an open heart and mind. The seeds of change you sow today may take time to flourish, but when they do, they have the power to transform not just individual lives but entire communities.
About The Author
Leave a Reply