Introduction
In the vibrant city of Pune, amidst the daily hustle life, lives a young dreamer named Ruchi Rani. With a heart full of aspirations and a mind thirsting for knowledge, she made her way through the corridors of Ness Wadia College. Her eyes were always searching for something beyond the routine, beyond the confines of textbooks and lectures—something deeper, more meaningful that could shape her future and enrich her journey.
A turning point with Youth4Change
Ruchi’s life took an unexpected and transformative turn when her cousin introduced her to the Centre for Youth Development and Activities. What began as a simple curiosity to explore something new soon became the catalyst for a remarkable journey that would shape her into the person she had always aspired to be. Initially, Ruchi joined youth4change out of interest, unaware of the profound impact it would have on her life.
A world of like-minded individuals
As Ruchi immersed herself in the various activities organized by youth4change, she quickly found herself surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals—each of them fuelled by a shared passion for learning, growth, and social change. The energy and drive of the group inspired her to push beyond her limits and explore new possibilities. Whether it was participating in workshops, attending camps, or engaging in conferences, Ruchi found herself drawn deeper into the world of activism and social awareness.
Expanding horizons through knowledge
Ruchi got opportunities to delve into a variety of pressing societal issues, such as gender equality, human rights, environmental conservation, and peace-building. Each experience opened her eyes to the challenges facing the world and ignited a passion within her to create meaningful change. These activities broadened her horizons, making her realize the power of collective action and the impact one person could have in driving social progress.
One of the defining moments in Ruchi’s journey with the National Peace Camp in Rajasthan. Despite battling stage fear and lack of confidence, she summoned her courage to perform a dance on the theme of peace and harmony. Another pivotal moment awaited Ruchi at the National Conference in Delhi, where she met young leaders and activists from across the country. As she shared her project and spoke passionately about peace and youth empowerment, she felt a newfound sense of confidence and purpose coursing through her veins.
One of the most defining moments in Ruchi’s journey where she joined the National Peace Camp in Rajasthan. Despite her battle with stage fear and lack of confidence, Ruchi summoned the courage to perform a dance on the theme of peace and harmony. Supported by her friends and mentors, she not only overcame her fears but also captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression.
“The moment I stepped off the stage, I realized that fear was just an illusion. The applause reminded me of my true potential,” Ruchi recalls, reflecting on her success.
Another pivotal moment in Ruchi’s journey occurred at the National Conference in Delhi, where she had the opportunity to meet young leaders and activists from across the country. As she shared her project on peace and youth empowerment, speaking passionately about her vision, Ruchi felt a surge of confidence and purpose. This experience marked a significant step in her growth as a young leader.
Impact on Ruchi’s Life
But Ruchi’s journey was not just about personal growth; it was also about giving back to her community. Armed with her knowledge and passion for commerce, she dedicated herself to helping other students, and enriching their lives through education and mentorship. As Ruchi reflected on her journey, she realized that it had transformed her in ways she never thought possible. Her once timid voice had blossomed into one of confidence and conviction. She was no longer a mere spectator in the world but an active participant, driven by a sense of responsibility and a desire to create positive change. With gratitude in her heart and determination in her soul, Ruchi knew that her journey with youth4change was far from over. With each passing day, she found herself inspired to do more, to be more, knowing that the path ahead was filled with endless possibilities for growth and impact.
During her journey, she found a platform for personal growth and community that nurtured her dreams and empowered her to turn them into reality. And as she looked towards the future, she did so with hope in her heart and the unwavering belief that together, they could truly change the world.
(This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation Officer, CYDA)
