Creating Spaces of Inclusion: “Youth Engagement for Social Transformation”
Module IV – Understanding and Reducing Vulnerabilities
Location: KAIROS – Kannur, Kerala
Dates: 19th – 21st September 2025
Partner Organisations: KAIROS, Thalassery Social Service Society (TSSS), and DSSS
Resource Persons: Mr Mohan and Mr Manoj
Youth Participants: 32 (Male – 21, Female – 11)
The three-day experiential training under the theme Understanding and Reducing Vulnerabilities provided an enriching platform for 32 young participants to explore the concepts of social inclusion, exclusion, and vulnerability within their communities. Designed as an interactive and participatory program, the sessions encouraged youth to think critically and reflect deeply on social realities affecting marginalised groups.
On the first day, Mr Manoj facilitated an introductory session on social exclusion, highlighting how it manifests in everyday life and affects individuals and society at large. Through engaging activities, he guided participants to explore the importance of fostering inclusive communities for sustainable development.
The second and third days were facilitated by Mr Mohan, who conducted in-depth sessions on vulnerabilities, social exclusion, and social justice. He explained the interconnectedness of exclusion and vulnerability, helping participants to identify real-life barriers and inequalities. The youth were divided into groups and tasked with preparing role plays that portrayed different social scenarios such as interactions at government offices, job interviews, and accessibility challenges faced by persons with disabilities bringing out the nuances of systemic discrimination and exclusion.
On the final day, Mr Mohan focused on social justice and the constitutional rights of citizens, emphasising how these rights must be safeguarded within every institution and public space. Participants were then encouraged to envision their ideal community through the group activity “My Dream for My Community.” Each group developed and presented a community profile outlining key challenges and practical steps to foster inclusion, equality, and justice in their locality.
One of the participants, Angel, expressed her reflections with heartfelt words:
“This training helped me realise that inclusion begins with understanding others’ struggles. When we recognise each person’s worth, we build a community where everyone belongs.”
The training concluded with renewed energy and commitment among participants to take forward the message of inclusion and social transformation in their respective communities.
Jefin Sam Thankachan
State Facilitator, Kerala
Social Inclusion and Democracy