Hi, I’m Vishal, and my journey into social work has been nothing short of transformative. It all began with a simple act of kindness during my first year of college, where an NGO introduced me to the idea of planting a sapling to commemorate World Plant Day. At first, it seemed like just another activity, a quick way to contribute something positive to the environment. However, it planted more than just trees; it sowed a seed of purpose in me.
That moment opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of creating change. I realised that while small acts like planting trees have their place, making a broader impact requires delving into the lives and struggles of people and communities. This led me to collaborate with NGOs like the Riddhi Foundation, which works with the elderly, especially those abandoned by their families. Seeing the smiles of these individuals—the hope that sparkled in their eyes—taught me that happiness can be shared without boundaries.
Later, my association with organisations such as Street Cause and the Hyderabad Youth Assembly expanded my understanding of community development. Through these experiences, I became acquainted with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, addressing issues like financial inclusion and education for underprivileged communities. However, I felt there was one more dimension of society I hadn’t yet touched: the youth. That’s when I discovered Rubaroo.
Entering Rubaroo: A Path of Self-Discovery and Community Impact
I first learned about Rubaroo’s Emerging Leaders Programme (ELP) through social media, and it immediately intrigued me. Unlike traditional NGOs, Rubaroo focused on a unique demographic—adolescents and young adults under 18. The fellowship promised not just leadership skills but also profound personal growth.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of the program was understanding the concept of consent. Before Rubaroo, like many, I underestimated its importance. We live in a world where snapping a photograph or making casual remarks often happens without permission. Rubaroo changed that perspective for me, showing how such acts, however unintentional, could violate someone’s space. This foundational principle of respecting boundaries resonated deeply with me.
Unlearning to Learn
Another transformative lesson I took from Rubaroo was the idea of unlearning. Society ingrains many beliefs in us—some outdated, others outright harmful. Rubaroo taught me that growth begins when we unlearn what no longer serves us and embrace new ways of thinking. For instance, we tackled stigmas around gender, sexuality, and education through candid discussions and collaborative tasks.
One striking moment was addressing gender-based violence. It was shocking yet enlightening to learn how systemic inequalities continue to deny women access to education and opportunities. We explored how cultural norms, like considering daughters as transient members of a family, impact decisions regarding their schooling. I realised that educating girls is not just an investment in an individual but a transformative step for society as a whole.
Navigating Challenges
Working with Rubaroo wasn’t without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic turned the fellowship into a virtual experience, limiting our ability to interact with communities directly. Despite this, we maximised online platforms to educate and advocate. For instance, we conducted sessions on child rights and the importance of stopping child marriages.
One instance that stands out is when we collaborated online to rescue girls from forced child marriages during the lockdown. While we couldn’t physically intervene, the coordination and determination of the team to connect with ground-level activists and legal authorities were inspiring. It showed me the power of collective action even in constrained circumstances.
Why Adolescents Matter
Adolescents hold a special place in my heart, partly because of my own childhood experiences. Growing up with trauma taught me that early intervention and nurturing are critical. Unlike abandoned animals or homeless adults whose needs are more evident, children often don’t know what they need. Their silent struggles can only be understood through empathetic observation and engagement.
In our work, we didn’t just focus on providing education or resources; we addressed the emotional needs of young people. Adolescents are at a crossroads where their worldview is shaped by their upbringing, societal norms, and exposure. If they aren’t guided well, the consequences ripple into adulthood, affecting their relationships and contributions to society.
Lessons in Leadership
Rubaroo also honed my skills in team and conflict management. Every individual in a team brings their own timeline, execution style, and opinions. The ELP programme taught us how to build consensus, respect differences, and manage conflicts constructively. It was during our debates—often on sensitive topics like gender and education—that I learned to listen actively and find common ground.
One of my biggest takeaways was the realisation that privilege doesn’t always equate to awareness. Whether someone is financially secure or resource-rich, their perspective is often shaped by their environment. Many families with means still resist discussing puberty, sex education, or consent due to cultural taboos. This gap between privilege and awareness reinforced my belief in the importance of Rubaroo’s mission.
Moving Forward
Today, I see the impact of Rubaroo not just in communities but also in myself. My approach to life has shifted; I now strive to unlearn, learn, and implement before advocating for change. The fellowship made me a better team player, a more empathetic listener, and a stronger advocate for inclusivity and respect.
If I have one piece of advice for Rubaroo, it’s this: Never stop. The work Rubaroo does is essential, and its ripples of change are evident in every life it touches.
For me, the journey with Rubaroo isn’t over. It’s a lifelong commitment to the values I’ve learned—creating safe spaces, empowering the voiceless, and building a society where respect and understanding are at the forefront.
This blog isn’t just a recounting of my journey—it’s an invitation for you to reflect on yours. How can you contribute to the world around you? And what values will guide your path? Together, let’s make change happen.
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