At Hunnarshala, the project I am part of, we focus on empowering young people to unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to the development of their city (Bhuj). Through a blend of hands-on workshops, theoretical learning, and training in media tools, we’re building a space for youth to dream, learn, and act. This journey began in 2023, but for me, it became personal on September 3, 2024, when I officially joined Hunnarshala.
That was when we really needed to shift gears and focus on bringing the young people of Bhuj into the fold. To do this, we tried different outreach activities—some of which I had the chance to design myself. But those stories can wait for another day. Today, I want to talk about the amazing young individuals who have stepped forward to join this initiative. They’ve brought their unique stories, energy, and perspectives, shaping not just the project but also my understanding of what youth empowerment truly looks like.
Disclaimer – Since this is an action research initiative, I cannot share their real names or too many personal details. However, based on my interactions with them, I’ll be sharing insights into the kind of people they are and what they bring to this journey.
The Doer : Rohesh
At 21, Rohesh exemplifies the idea of action over theory. Hailing from a historically significant community in Bhuj, his energy and eagerness to take charge have been instrumental in turning ideas into tangible outcomes for our project. Whether it’s organizing a cleanup drive or spearheading practical solutions for city development, Rohesh is always the first to roll up his sleeves and dive in.
Coming from an educated family—his late mother held a master’s degree—Rohesh’s decision to leave formal education after high school was unconventional. Losing his mother had a profound impact on him, shaping his belief that real growth comes from hands-on experience rather than classroom learning. For him, education often feels like a means to secure a job rather than a quest for knowledge. This philosophy drives his commitment to learning through action, convinced that his approach will pave the way to meaningful opportunities.
What truly sets Rohesh apart is his unwavering optimism. Even in the face of challenges, his radiant smile and positive energy inspire everyone around him.
The Connector : Yamini
Yamini is the heart and soul of our group, effortlessly weaving connections and fostering a sense of unity. At 22, she radiates energy, empathy, and a drive to uplift not only herself but everyone around her. Her natural knack for coordination ensures our workshops run seamlessly. From managing logistics to confirming attendance every Friday for our Sunday sessions, Yamini’s dedication keeps the wheels turning.
Her journey is one of resilience and courage. Married at 19, Yamini faced physical abuse and opposition to her educational aspirations from her in-laws. Refusing to let adversity define her, she fought for a divorce—an extraordinary act in her conservative community—and emerged stronger, determined to pursue her dreams. Today, her passion for education and development inspires us all, making her a role model for perseverance and self-empowerment.
The Core Four : Piyush, Fatema, Harnoor, And Ayush
This quartet embodies the essence of our project’s core mission: understanding and promoting sustainable urban development.
Piyush, a 23-year-old B.Tech student, brings a tech-savvy perspective to the group. His awareness of the digital divide and eagerness to bridge these gaps align perfectly with the project’s goals. He’s always exploring how technology can address societal challenges.
Fatema’s perspective is shaped by Kutch’s dynamic non profit ecosystem. Growing up, she witnessed her mother’s financial success through women-centric initiatives, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for social work. Fatema’s ability to connect her personal experiences to the broader goals of our workshops makes her a natural leader.
Harnoor, in contrast, is quieter but no less significant. While she often hesitates to take initiative, she plays a crucial role as Yamini’s dependable right-hand person. Her quiet presence is a reminder that not every contribution has to be loud to be impactful.
Ayush is different. He is doing his B.Ed., which often keeps him absent from youth meetings, but he is overly enthusiastic about working on education. His passion for improving educational systems drives his contributions to the project.
The Realists
Beyond the core group, our cohort is a fascinating mix of 38 dreamers and realists. Together, they add depth and diversity to our collective efforts.
Shivam, an aspiring entrepreneur, is brimming with innovative ideas to boost Bhuj’s local economy. While some of his visions may seem impractical at times, his enthusiasm is infectious, often sparking lively debates and encouraging others to think bigger.
Priya, on the other hand, is the grounded realist. Quiet but determined, her meticulous approach to problem-solving ensures that the group’s ideas are both feasible and impactful. Whether it’s analyzing data or creating detailed plans, Priya’s contributions keep the group anchored in reality.
Arif, an 18-year-old autodidact, offers a refreshing perspective shaped by his experiences navigating systemic barriers. Passionate about inclusion, he champions the voices of marginalized communities, challenging the group to broaden their horizons and think beyond their own experiences.
Meera, a 20-year-old environmental science student, is the group’s sustainability advocate. Her passion for green practices has sparked discussions on integrating eco-friendly solutions into urban planning. Her innovative ideas and deep commitment to the environment have made her an indispensable part of the team.
And then there’s Nikhil, the joker of the group. His humor and lightheartedness provide much-needed balance, diffusing tension during intense discussions and keeping everyone’s spirits high. While he may not always lead conversations, his ability to bring the group together is invaluable.
Collaborative Impact
What stands out most about this group is their collective willingness to learn from one another. Shivam’s ambitious ideas often find balance in Priya’s practicality, while Meera’s focus on sustainability complements Arif’s advocacy for inclusion. These dynamic interactions reflect the power of collaboration and the richness of diverse perspectives. This synergy has not only enhanced the workshop experience but also fostered a profound sense of community among the youth. Together, they embody the core principles of our action research initiative: inclusivity, creativity, and shared responsibility. By bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the table, they’re not just participants in a project but active contributors to a shared vision for a better Bhuj.
Reflections
This eclectic mix of personalities showcases the rich diversity within youth gatherings. Each individual’s strengths and challenges contribute to a deeper understanding of how transformative change happens—both in individuals and in communities. Through this project, I’ve learned that empowering young people isn’t just about imparting knowledge. It’s about creating spaces for them to express themselves, explore their potential, and support each other’s journeys. And in doing so, they end up empowering the cities they live in.
What kind of people have you met in youth initiatives? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
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