From a post-graduate in Clinical Psychology to a social development advocate, Hiba’s journey has been nothing short of transformative. Her story, one marked by self-discovery, growth, and the pursuit of meaningful change, took a significant turn when she joined Rubaroo’s Interfaith Youth Leadership Program (IYLP).
In this candid interview, Hiba opens up about how Rubaroo shaped her understanding of social issues, her experience as part of a diverse cohort, and how this journey continues to influence her life—personally and professionally.
The Beginning:
“My journey with Rubaroo started right after I completed my master’s in Clinical Psychology from Jamia Millia in Delhi. It was right at the onset of COVID. I was in a phase of uncertainty, not sure about what I wanted to do next. I stumbled upon Rubaroo through a mentor, and little did I know that this would be the turning point in my life,” Hiba shares with a sense of nostalgia.
Hiba was introduced to Rubaroo’s Interfaith Youth Leadership Program (IYLP), where 17 individuals from various faith backgrounds across India came together to discuss and work on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program, in collaboration with the British High Commission, aimed to foster a collective impact through social action projects.
“We were encouraged to build teams, collaborate with others, and implement projects that would create positive change. My first project focused on holistic education, emphasizing not just academic success but emotional and social development,” she explains.
The Challenges and Growth:
While the experience was undoubtedly rewarding, it wasn’t without its challenges. “Coming from a comfortable, like-minded environment in Jamia, entering a space with such diverse perspectives was a real eye-opener. There were moments of discomfort, and sometimes, my beliefs were challenged. But Neha’s perspective—that conflict is growth—truly changed my outlook,” says Hiba, reflecting on a pivotal moment in the program.
The thought-provoking workshops on emotional intelligence, gender sensitivity, and working with people from diverse backgrounds provided Hiba with tools to navigate through these conflicts and embrace growth.
She recalls, “It wasn’t just about learning concepts but about truly transforming my perspective. The experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me evolve both personally and professionally.”
Post-Rubaroo: A Shift Towards Purpose-Driven Work:
Reflecting on how the IYLP shaped her life, Hiba says, “It gave me a sense of direction. I realized that I needed a purpose-driven career, one where I could truly make a difference.” After the program, Hiba joined Teach for India as a fellow, working with third-grade students in an MCD Primary School, where she continues to impact young lives.
But her journey wasn’t without its detours. Hiba had initially ventured into the corporate sector, working as a career counselor in Dubai. However, the work didn’t fulfill her sense of purpose. “The corporate world was just about numbers, and the story behind each number didn’t matter. I felt disconnected, and I realized I needed to be in the field, doing work that truly impacted people,” she shares.
Rubaroo’s Impact on the Ground:
Hiba strongly believes in Rubaroo’s capacity to create tangible social change. “The network is vast, and the work being done on the ground is incredible. I’ve seen firsthand how Rubaroo’s efforts in various communities—working with youth, teachers, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community—are truly making a difference. The work Rubaroo does is impactful, and it’s inspiring to see so many changemakers working towards social justice,” she asserts.
Hiba was able to reach over 600 youth and teachers, conducting workshops on emotional intelligence, climate change, and holistic education. “The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants appreciated the connection between faith, education, and social issues, and many shared that the workshops helped them view these topics through a more nuanced lens,” she recalls.
Advice for Future Changemakers:
When asked about her advice for those considering a career in social development, Hiba shares, “Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone. You will encounter challenges and biases, and it’s essential to be flexible and open-minded. It’s about breaking your own stereotypes and growing through those experiences.”
For Hiba, the social action projects and the interactions with diverse communities were not just about implementing change—they were also about personal evolution. “Even when I was the youngest in a room full of elders, conducting workshops with teachers, it was a nerve-wracking experience. But with guidance from mentors and a willingness to be vulnerable, I gained confidence and learned to handle situations with maturity,” she reflects.
As she continues her journey in the social sector, Hiba’s story serves as a powerful reminder that change often starts with an individual’s drive to be the change. “It’s the small steps that matter. Even if you make a difference to just one person, it counts.”
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