“Never stop exploring. Believe in yourself. Be the change you wish to see.”
Preparing for civil and defense exams, Lavanya takes time out to reminisce about the days gone by in a candid conversation with Rubaroo. She is a Youth Champion of the Agaaz-E-Baatcheet 2019 batch and has continued spreading the program’s impact.
A Spark of Empathy: Finding Her Voice in a Safe Space
In 2019, Layanya was a college freshman pursuing a BBA and looking for opportunities to explore and learn more about herself. One fine day, the opportunity rang as her college professor asked her to participate in one of Rubaroo’s programs.
“I enrolled for Agaaz-E-Baatcheet on the recommendation of my college professor. Nervous, I participated in the workshop even though I had recently moved to Hyderabad and faced language barriers and route confusion. But you know what – those three days are the most memorable days of my life.”
Referring to the workshop days as most memorable, Lavanya shares how she met people from diverse backgrounds, opened up to each other, explored identities, and learned to be kind to herself.
“I realized the importance of being empathetic and non-judgmental while interacting with others as you never know what the other person might be going through and, most importantly, respecting each other’s boundaries and providing a safe space.”
Taking Action: From Workshops to Social Impact Projects
Empowered by her newfound values, Lavanys couldn’t sit back. Along with her peers, she executed three impactful social action projects. From reaching out to school students to college students at FDDI, Lavanya advocated for interfaith harmony and sustainability through interactive sessions and competitions. What stood out in her project was incorporating sustainability via interfaith messaging at FDDI through a competition.
“I was amazed to see the students’ creativity and would never have imagined that our work would be appreciated by everyone, especially Andrew Sir and actor Nagarjuna Sir.”
Staying unfazed through difficulties in securing permissions and managing time, Lavanya gives her mentors and the team a shout-out for their support and how it has helped reach hundreds of students.
Beyond College: Embracing Uncertainty and Making a Difference
Graduation brought new choices, and Lavanya, the explorer, chose a less-traveled path. Volunteering with NGOs, co-founding the Rotaract Club – RAC Utkarsh, and participating in COVID relief initiatives – Lavanya’s commitment to social change only grew stronger.
“Stepping out of college, there’s pressure to conform, but I wanted to do something – Hatke – that contributes to society while aligning with my values. It has helped me pursue my calling and prepare for Defence and other competitive exams.”
Having volunteered for several NGOs, Lavanya singles out Rubaroo’s pedagogy for its values of inclusivity and empathy, and she finds it involving and practical.
“Whether it’s communicating with my close friends and family, working with others in teams while organizing events, or workplace while taking interviews, training the new joiners, or organizing training sessions, I have better understood myself, people, and my surroundings. It has made me a better person and helped establish positive and understanding relationships.”
A Beacon for Aspiring Changemakers
With an eye on the future, Lavanya aims to contribute to upskilling women and young people to make them independent and self-reliant and contribute to Made In India.
“Never stop exploring,” Lavanya emphasizes. “Have the courage and belief in yourself – you never know what the opportunity in front of you may lead to. Be empathetic and aware of not only yourself but the people around you as well.” These words encapsulate the essence of her journey – a journey driven by a thirst for knowledge, a deep sense of empathy, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.
Lavanya’s story is a testament to the power within each of us to create change. It’s a call to action, urging us to embrace uncertainty, cultivate empathy, and take that first step toward building a better world.
So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring, find your voice, and make your mark on the world. The possibilities are endless, just like Lavanya’s journey.
About The Author
