Program Title: Breaking the Chains of Inequality in Society
Module: Module I – Self and Society
Location: Multipurpose Training Center, Mittapalli-Uthangarai, Tamil Nadu
Dates: 27th, 28th & 29th July 2024
Partner Organizations: WELFARE Trust, Sanjeevi Trust, ROAD Society, SPRING Trust, Gold Trust
Resource Person: P. Dhanalakshmi (9942773970)
Youth Participants: 36 (Male – 12, Female – 22, Transgender – 2
As the first program of Capacity Building Training for Rural Youth – Batch III, organized by the Indian Social Institute in Bengaluru, this three-day workshop took place in Uthangarai Zone, Tamil Nadu. Bringing together 36 young people, the training aimed to foster reflection on the theme of “Self and Society.” Participants engaged in a variety of learning methods, including individual sharing, group discussions, collaborative activities, and group reflections. Through these exercises, they gained insights into both individual and community life.
Sathya, a young participant, shared her experience: “The ‘Self and Society’ training was transformative. It helped me explore who I am beyond the roles and expectations that society has placed upon me. Initially, I expected a theoretical exercise, but it turned out to be an intense personal journey. The program began by asking us to confront the labels we carry every day. I realized how much these roles had shaped me—sometimes positively, but at other times, in ways that felt limiting. Through guided reflection and group exercises, I discovered how much my decisions and self-worth were influenced by others’ expectations and judgments.”
Another participant, Murali, expressed his perspective, saying, “I’ve always felt the weight of invisible walls around me. Coming from a Dalit background, I grew up with the awareness of a rigid caste system that still pervades my town. My family lives on the outskirts, where we are often reminded of societal norms that say we are lesser, unworthy of respect. Despite these constraints, I’ve always had a quiet fire within—a desire to break free from these chains of inequality. This training gave me hope and a sense of direction inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy.”
Ms. Dhanalakshmi, the resource person, played a vital role in guiding participants on their journey of self-exploration and understanding societal influences. She led discussions on topics such as cultural and social identity, group dynamics, and how societal expectations evolve over time. She also helped participants examine how external influences could either support or conflict with their personal goals.
Facilitating this “Self and Society” program was both a privilege and a learning experience for me. Each session, I was inspired by the courage of these young individuals to question, explore, and share deeply personal insights and challenges. As a facilitator, I believe that our role goes beyond merely leading; it also involves learning alongside participants in every step of their journey.
Premkumar D
Facilitator,
Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Social Inclusion and Democracy Unit