PROGRAM : “Empowering Youth: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Community Leadership”
MODULE I : Self and Society
PLACE : Lodi Multipurpose Social Service Society, Fathima Nagar, Telangana State.
DATES : 22nd, 23rd& 24th July 2024.
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS : Lodi Multipurpose Social Service Society (LMSSS), Fathima Nagar, Hanumakonda, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary Social Service Society (FMMSSS), Subedari, Hanumakonda, Raghava Environmental Educational Cultural Rural Development Service Society –(RECARDSS), Kumarpally, Hanumakonda, Telangana State.
RESOURCE PERSON (S) NAME
Fr. Vijaya Bhaskar Rao, SJ
Fr. Inna Reddy
The three-day training program on Self and Society, organized by the Indian Social Institute, Bengaluru, had a significant impact on the 40 young participants. During the workshop, the youth explored their roles in their families and communities, engaging in both individual and group activities. These exercises helped them reflect on their strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations for themselves and society. This journey of self-discovery enabled the participants to develop greater self-awareness, confidence, self-esteem, and leadership skills.
Venkatesh said, I am very happy and thankful to have joined this training program. It helped me understand myself and my role in the community better. I learned how important leadership, unity, and teamwork are for achieving our goals. I feel more confident and motivated to make a difference now. I plan to share what I’ve learned with at least 10 people in my community and encourage them to work together to create positive changesA. Nikith said, this training has changed me a lot. I used to be scared of speaking in public, but now I feel much more confident. The trainer’s speeches inspired me and showed me the importance of thinking critically and not comparing myself to others. V. Jaysha said, this training helped me understand that being a leader means taking responsibility and helping others. I learned about social service and the importance of raising awareness in our community. We discussed how to tackle common problems and how young people like us can make a real difference. K. Jyothsna, a P.G. student, said she is proud of the personal changes she has made through the training. She has learned to be proactive and is eager to contribute to her village by raising awareness about health, education, and the environment. She looks forward to working with youth groups to take actions that will benefit the community and is excited to share this knowledge with her family and friends to inspire positive change.
Fr. Vijaya Bhaskar Rao SJ and Fr. Inna Reddy, the resource persons, encouraged the youth to focus on personal growth by developing a positive self-image. They also highlighted the need for fostering unity within the community to tackle social issues effectively. By the end of the training, the participants expressed their inspiration to cultivate strong social ethics and moral values.
As a facilitator, I am truly inspired by the participants’ enthusiasm and growth throughout the training. Seeing them gain confidence, critical thinking skills and a sense of their leadership roles was rewarding. Their eagerness to apply their knowledge and work together for community improvement highlights the value of such programs in empowering youth and fostering social responsibility.15 Male and 25 female participants actively participated in the training.
Adv. Karuna Rao
Facilitator, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana
Social Inclusion and Democracy Unit.