It has been almost 2 years at Nirmaan and I don't have enough words to explain the journey. In these two years, I saw hope, courage, endeavor, passion and selflessness. I saw all these through Nirmaan, in the people of this country, in fellow volunteers, and now in myself. To be precise, I feel more complete as an individual. I feel I am one of those responsible citizens of this country.
2 years ago, I had no thoughts about Nation building, changing the society. I was more into myself, my life, my career and of course fun. And then came Nirmaan. The memories of the summer meeting (Annual General body Meeting 2010, July 24 -25) are engraved deep inside my heart. That was for the 1st time, I saw passion, selflessness and hope. A day spent with Mayur, Rajesh and other leaders of Nirmaan truly left a long-lasting impression and instilled inspiration in me. That was the moment I thought “It’s time to join the movement!”
I came back to Goa in high spirits and the team here welcomed me with a smile! I worked with the executive committee for the next one year and we all joined hands to make the operations at Goa more sustainable and effective. In this one year, in the leadership of Kunjan Gandhi, I learned some of the most important lessons of my life. Working at the grassroot projects in the slums of Zari gave me insights about SHGs, Education sector and Community development. Driven by the hope in the eyes of the SHG women and the school kids, we worked out on various models in employment and education. At the same time, the Nirmaan Goa team gelled well and now is a strong passionate team! This one year gave me exposure to the real world, and sensitized me to work for a better Nation. I committed myself to work for a better society, to make the country a better place to live!
The next phase of transformation came in Bangalore, the place where I did my PS-2. A 6 month journey with Rakesh and Sagar. Also this was the time I worked for the central team of Nirmaan. During this period, I saw a different aspect of the country, Politics! Although I read about contemporary issues in the country, I never really dwelled into this topic. Rakesh and Sagar together gave me a total exposure to the Indian Political System the leaders and the policies. We had innumerable discussions about good governance, developmental politics. All these certainly gave me more insights about the country and its prospects. I realized that youth empowerment and good governance is the way out!
All in all, Nirmaan gave me every opportunity to learn, to grow, to prove myself and to be the change! It has been a total transformation. It's certainly my time to give back to the Organization, to give back to the Society. I thank Snehith for introducing Nirmaan to me, Kunjan for being a constant inspiration and motivation, Rajesh, Rakesh, Sagar, Mayur and Sridhar for constantly guiding me.
"We have only one passion, the rise of a Great Nation!"
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