When Vismaya first walked into the space created by Rubaroo, little did she know how transformative the experience would be. Her journey began back in 2016, when she was introduced to Rubaroo through Shubhi. She participated in the Creator’s Workshop, which eventually led to her involvement in Samvidhan Live and other workshops. Reflecting on that first day, Vismaya recalls her initial nervousness and uncertainty.
“It was a bit scary, nervous,” she shares. “When you gain knowledge, you sometimes act overconfident, but you also feel that nervousness. By the end of the first day, I realized that I needed to be grounded.” That day marked the beginning of her path towards self-discovery and growth, as she emerged from her comfort zone and began to gain exposure that challenged her perspectives.
The Many Facets of Growth: Programs, Challenges, and Insights
As Vismaya continued her journey with Rubaroo, she found herself diving into several programs that expanded her understanding and challenged her beliefs. From gender-focused workshops to interfaith dialogues, she participated in Samvidhan Live and AEB, and even took on the role of a co-facilitator for Samvidhan Live 2. Each experience enriched her personal growth, enabling her to understand diverse issues more deeply.
When asked about how these workshops influenced her understanding of complex issues, she offered insights that reflect her evolving worldview. “When I participated in the gender workshops, I felt confident and informed. But when issues arose in real life, I was shocked at first. It takes time to process these things,” she says, emphasizing that learning doesn’t always translate into immediate action.
On gender equality, Vismaya shared that while her initial learning was theoretical, real-world encounters forced her to confront these concepts. “It’s when you encounter these issues in real life, especially with your students or in the workplace, that you realize the importance of equality and respect,” she adds.
Her involvement in interfaith and caste-related workshops had a similarly lasting impact. Vismaya noted the widespread biases in society, acknowledging how religion, caste, and race are often at the center of conflict. However, Rubaroo’s teachings helped her see that acceptance and understanding are key. “The solution to these issues isn’t conflict, but understanding. People fight because they don’t understand, and it is up to us to create solutions rather than divisions,” she explains.
Accepting the Self: Personal Growth Through Challenges
Vismaya’s personal growth was also deeply tied to her ability to confront and navigate challenges. One incident that stands out was when her personal information was hacked in Bangalore. She found herself in a distressing situation—her phone, Instagram, and even her bank account were compromised. Despite knowing the rules and regulations, Vismaya was initially unsure how to act. It was only after much reflection and support from friends and family that she found the courage to report the crime.
“I didn’t know how to take a stand for myself at first, even though I knew what was right. But when I stood up for myself, people accepted me for who I was,” Vismaya recalls. This experience not only empowered her but also served as a powerful lesson in self-advocacy.
Her experience with her student, who faced a similar situation, allowed her to pass on this knowledge. “I could help my student without hesitation because I had learned to navigate such challenges. I gave her the support she needed, and we dealt with it together,” Vismaya shares.
Empowering a New Generation
When asked whether Rubaroo’s work is having an impact, Vismaya’s response was emphatic. “It has an impact. Rubaroo gives us the ability to understand ourselves and the world around us,” she asserts. Through its programs, Rubaroo empowered her to evolve from a fearful individual to a confident woman capable of taking a stand.
Vismaya credits Rubaroo for helping her, and many others like her, confront difficult issues in a safe and supportive environment. The organization’s ability to address sensitive topics in simple and accessible ways, using workshops and games, has been instrumental in her growth. “It’s not just about learning from books. Rubaroo puts us in situations where we have to tackle real-life problems ourselves,” she explains.
Advice for the Youth: Embracing Challenges and Mental Health Awareness
Drawing from her journey, Vismaya offers some valuable advice to young people joining Rubaroo’s programs. “Take your own time, challenge yourself, and accept who you are. If you’re struggling, it’s okay. Just take a step back and try again,” she says. Her personal advice is a reminder that growth takes time and patience, and it’s okay not to have all the answers immediately.
Vismaya also emphasizes the importance of stress management and mental health, especially in today’s fast-paced world. “We need to talk more about stress management. It plays a huge role in today’s society,” she says. She suggests that Rubaroo could expand its focus to address this critical issue, particularly in the context of young people navigating academic, social, and emotional pressures. “Merging groups to tackle stress management would be a great initiative,” she suggests, noting that understanding and managing stress is essential for personal well-being and growth.
Looking Forward: Continuing the Journey
As Vismaya looks back on her journey, she sees herself as a changed person—one who has moved from being fearful to confidently navigating life’s challenges. Yet, she acknowledges that growth is an ongoing process. Her involvement in Rubaroo has not only helped her tackle real-life problems but has also equipped her to empower others around her. She now sees herself as a mentor, ready to guide others who are navigating similar struggles.
“I’m now Vismaya 2.0,” she says with a smile, reflecting on her evolution over the years. “Life happens, and you can’t predict it. But you can always rise above it.” Her story is a powerful testament to the power of self-acceptance, growth, and the support of communities like Rubaroo.
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