When Manisha first heard about Rubaroo, she was unsure what to expect. What started as a simple WhatsApp message about an NGO organizing a camp for girls soon turned into an experience that would reshape her outlook on life, gender, and social awareness.

“The first time I heard about Rubaroo was when we got this message in the placement cell on WhatsApp,” Manisha recalls. “It was an NGO organizing a camp for girls, and we were asked to register for it. I had seen their posts on Instagram before but didn’t pay much attention. But when I discovered it was a seven-day camp to Bangalore, my friends and I were excited. We thought, why not? It was a chance to visit a new city with friends, so we registered.”

Her initial excitement soon gave way to a mix of anticipation and nervousness, as there was no update for several days. However, when Rubaroo finally confirmed her registration, the excitement was back in full force. An introductory Zoom call with mentors Monisha, Pavani, and Uma provided a glimpse of what was to come, and Manisha quickly realized she was about to embark on something much more significant than just a trip to Bangalore.

Upon arrival at Fireflies, the venue for the camp, Manisha was initially hesitant, feeling out of place and unsure of how to approach new people. “In the beginning, I was a little embarrassed. I didn’t know anyone there, and my best friend and I stuck together. We weren’t interacting much with others.” But Rubaroo provided the platform that challenged her to step out of her comfort zone and forge new connections.

“It pushed me to make the first move and talk to people, even if they weren’t talking to me first. Before Rubaroo, I was never someone to initiate conversations, but it allowed me to break out of that. It was a place to learn about others, understand different perspectives, and make new friends.”

Life-Changing Insights at the Camp

The camp was not just a fun getaway but an eye-opening experience that led Manisha to reflect deeply on societal norms and personal growth. Activities like the treasure hunt, ice-breaker games, and group discussions were pivotal learning moments.

“Initially, I was with strangers, but the treasure hunt became a turning point. I got along with my group, shared ideas, and learned to work with people I didn’t know. It felt like a big achievement for me,” Manisha explains.

But it wasn’t just the activities; the teachings would leave a lasting impact. One concept that resonated deeply with her was Rubaroo’s discussion about comfort, panic, and stretch zones. “I never thought about these zones until Rubaroo explained them to us. When we’re with our family, we’re in our comfort zone. But stepping outside of that, like when you’re doing something new, can be stressful or even panic-inducing. That realization was huge for me.”

She also learned the power of autonomy. “Once you turn 18, you don’t need to ask for permission from anyone, whether it’s family, friends, or society. You can make your own decisions and fight for your rights. That was empowering.”

However, perhaps one of the most profound lessons for Manisha came when the mentors discussed how societal expectations shape women’s lives. “It made me realize how much we are compressed by societal pressures, even by our own families. For example, you’re appreciated when you wear traditional clothes, but if you wear something modern, there’s always a sense of disapproval.”

This conversation helped Manisha see how these subtle pressures stifle individual freedom and expression. “I understood that our families love us, but they also try to control us, and Rubaroo helped me see that.”

A Shift in Perception: Gender and Interfaith

Rubaroo’s emphasis on gender awareness and interfaith dialogue profoundly shifted Manisha’s views. Before joining the program, she, like many others, thought of gender in rigid terms. “I used to think there were only two genders. But the programme changed that for me. I learned to respect and understand the LGBTQ+ community. People are people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.”

Her newfound perspective was not just theoretical—it had practical implications. Manisha shared how she and her friends once bullied a boy in their neighborhood for acting differently. “I never really had a reason to hate him, but society told us boys should act a certain way. After the programme, I realized that he was just like us, and I tried to apologize and became friends with him.”

This shift in perception also extended to her family. Manisha began challenging traditional gender norms within her household, questioning why certain actions were considered ‘appropriate’ only for women, such as crying or showing emotions. “Before, we all accepted these norms. But after participating, I started questioning them. Why can’t boys cry like girls? Why are we so strict about what girls should wear? It became clear that we needed to change how we think about gender and gender roles.”

Real-World Impact: Changing Lives

Through her involvement in Rubaroo’s social action projects, Manisha saw firsthand how the program creates real change. One of her key projects was career counseling for adolescent girls in a government school. Despite initial resistance, she and her peers persevered and made a lasting impact.

“The girls in the school were so supportive and eager to learn. Even when we had to wait for a teacher to finish their session, they would peek through the windows and wave at us. They loved the activities we did with them.”

For Manisha, this project was more than just about providing guidance—it was about breaking barriers and showing these young girls that they could dream big and pursue careers outside of what society typically expects from them.

The Domino Effect

Reflecting on Rubaroo’s broader impact on society, Manisha is convinced that the programme is making a difference. “Rubaroo participants are different from others. They’re more confident, stand up for their rights, and ask questions. We no longer accept things as they are and fight for the changes we want to see in society.”

She believes that Rubaroo instills a sense of autonomy and empowerment in its participants, extending far beyond the camp or the program itself. “We challenge norms, even within our families. For example, I questioned why we’re told not to discuss periods openly. Why should boys not know about it? Raising awareness can create a more understanding and supportive environment for girls and women.”

Looking Ahead

Now pursuing an MBA at Methodist College, Manisha remains engaged with Rubaroo’s work and looks forward to contributing. She also advises those about to embark on their own Rubaroo journey: “Be active, make friends, and don’t hesitate to open up. Be the first to speak and share your thoughts. If you’re open to it, you’ll gain a lot from this experience.”

And as she continues her journey, the lessons she learned remain a powerful part of her story.

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