Youth Action toward Resilient Communities
Module IV – Understanding and Reducing Vulnerabilities
Location: AADI, Mattathukad, Attappady, Palakkad
Dates: 17th – 19th October 2025
Partner Organisations: AADI, SMSSS, and AKADS
Resource Persons: Mr Kanda Swami, Mr Kaliswami, Fr. Lenin Antony, Ms Shanthamani, and Ms Eswary
Youth Participants: 47 (Male -27, Female – 20)
The three-day Capacity Building Training for Youth was organised by AADI in collaboration with ISI Bangalore, SMSSS, and AKADS, with the central theme of Social Justice. The training created leadership skills, awareness, and participation among tribal youth in community development. It emphasised rights-based learning, teamwork, and inclusive values, empowering participants to promote equality and justice in their communities.
The program began with an introductory and ice-breaking session led by Mr Jefin, state facilitator, followed by a welcome address from Fr. Kammal, Director of AADI. The evening cultural event showcased the rich tribal heritage and fostered unity and enthusiasm among participants.
On the second day, sessions focused on expanding personal and social perspectives. Mr Kanda Swami inaugurated the day with a motivating address, followed by Mr Kaliswami’s talk on “Voice of the Voiceless,” which highlighted social exclusion and Inclusion in tribal communities. Interactive discussions on education, social structure, and government schemes deepened participants’ awareness of social justice. Later sessions led by Thambu and Social Activist Ramu on tribal history and resilience inspired pride and reflection. The day concluded with cultural performances and a group evaluation.
The final day featured interactive sessions by Ms Shanthamani, who shared her experiences of empowerment and resilience towards vulnerabilities, and Fr. Lenin Antony, who emphasised the reformist visions of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Ayyankali, and Periyar. Ms Eswary, a tribal political leader, encouraged youth to overcome exclusion and advocate for inclusion and justice. The closing cultural event and feedback session allowed participants to express creativity and reaffirm their commitment to community development.
Anamika, one of the participants, beautifully reflected:
“This training helped me find my voice — to speak for myself and for my community.”
The training concluded with an evaluation and closing ceremony, marking a transformative step toward building confident, aware, and justice-oriented tribal youth leaders.
Jefin Sam Thankachan
State Facilitator, Kerala
Social Inclusion and Democracy