My journey with Rubaroo started with a conversation with Bangla Bharathi ma’am who encouraged me to apply for the Agaaz-e-Baatcheet programme. Hesitant, I wasn’t entirely confident about it with stage fright being a constant companion. But something inside me nudged me to give it a shot, and hence, I applied. And by God, that turned out to be one of the best decisions ever as I not only selected but embarked on a journey whose learnings have always kept me ahead in the race. When I got selected, I was bewildered, but I knew that this was a step forward.

Stepping out my comfort zone

I was 17 then, just started my undergraduate studies, nervous and shy. I had no idea about gender and interfaith and its interlinkage. Hence, as I stepped into the unknown – the workshop eased my nerves as I settled into discussions that were both eye-opening and transformative. It rendered a different perspective and for the first time in my life, I made friends from various backgrounds and communities. 

The social action projects (SAPs) were especially impactful to overcome stage fright, build confidence, and speak about the intersectionality of interfaith and gender, and identity in ways that were both personal and engaging.

AEB propelled me to continue impacting young lives through Rubaroo, and hence, during the tumultuous times of COVID, I volunteered with Rubaroo to solidify interfaith harmony. The involvement became a lifeline amid the isolation. However, I haven’t been able to make time as actively, and I miss that sense of connection and contribution. It’s a gap that I’m working to fill, and hopefully, engage again. 

Becoming an ambivert

Starting out as a hesitant introvert, I’ve come a long way in embracing the learnings, and pushing myself at every opportunity. Rubaroo’s programmes and opportunities helped me build strong networking skills to connect with people from different walks of life. I remember learning about Islam and Christianity, and their teachings. Growing up in a traditional Hindu family, I had little exposure to other faiths, but Rubaroo encouraged me to participate in religious festivals and respect diverse beliefs.

I approach conversations with empathy and understanding of the other person. The difference between sympathy and empathy became clear, as I shifted my focus on truly listening to the other person.

A new chapter

As I graduate with an MBA, I carry forward the learnings instilled throughout my journey with Rubaroo. Being part of the organisation has been nothing short of an unmatched experience – a journey of empowerment that I will always cherish. In fact, I invite my friends and juniors to volunteer and participate in Rubaroo’s programmes.

About The Author

Faiz Jiwani

Living by the principles of humanity, striving for pluralism, orating a story of millions of dreams, transcending thoughts into writing, and a budding researcher willing to unearth the mysteries of consciousness! That defines me the best! I’m a passionate Content Writer cum Storyteller, a Facilitator working on interfaith, gender, and youth development, and a Co-Founder of The Dialogue Project. You’ll find me engrossed in deep conversations, listening to music, watching great films, and always up for a chat!

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