PROGRAM : Real Change Starts When We Start to Think Critically
MODULE IV : Understanding and Reducing Vulnerabilities
PLACE : Chirala, Andhra Pradesh.
DATES : 5,6 & 7 June 2025
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS : Jesus Mary Joseph Social Service Society (JMJSSS), Vetapalem, Community Action For Rural Development Society (CARDS), Chirala, and Kamadhenu Charitable Trust (KCT), Ongole, Andhra Pradesh.
RESOURCE PERSONS
Fr. Anthaiah SBD, K. Shekar Babu and Dasari Immaniyelu
In Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, a spark was lit in the hearts of 42 young participants during a powerful three-day capacity-building training on Understanding and Reducing Vulnerabilities, organized by the Indian Social Institute – Bengaluru. Hailing from diverse villages, these young changemakers came together to learn, reflect, and reimagine a better future — not just for themselves, but for their entire communities.
The training helped youth critically think on key issues such as discrimination, exclusion, lack of access to education, and unemployment. They learnt on constitutional rights and duties. “We were not just trained. We were made aware — of our power, our rights, and our responsibility,” said Prabhakar, one of the participants.
Deepika from KCT NGO echoed, “Yes, there is poverty, there is lack of guidance, and there are too few jobs. But I will lead my community with hope for a transformation”.
For Jeevan, a young participant deeply influenced by the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Jyotirao Phule, the training was a call to break the silence around caste-based injustices. “We can no longer afford to be quiet. We must question what’s wrong and stand up for what’s right. Real change starts when we dare to think critically.”
The resource persons — Fr. Anthaiah SBD, K. Shekar Babu, and Dasari Immaniyelu — expressed their admiration for the depth and maturity shown by the youth. “This is not just a training. It’s the beginning of leadership. These young people are now more aware, courageous, and committed to their communities,” said Fr. Anthaiah.
Adv. Karuna Rao
State Facilitator, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana
Social Inclusion and Democracy Department