Interning at CYDA was an experience that reshaped my understanding of social work and community engagement. When I first learned about CYDA through my college, Abasaheb Garware College, I was intrigued by its commitment to social change. As a young student eager to contribute to meaningful initiatives, I saw this as an opportunity to immerse myself in real-world challenges, step out of my comfort zone, and develop practical skills that extended beyond the classroom. The chance to work closely with grassroots communities and understand their struggles firsthand was what truly motivated me to join.
My internship journey began with digital storytelling. I was tasked with developing social media strategies to enhance engagement on CYDA’s newly launched Instagram page, Impact Lens, where real-life case stories were shared. This initial responsibility gave me insight into how digital platforms can be leveraged to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. However, within a week, my role expanded beyond the digital realm as I was introduced to fieldwork at Manuski, an NGO working closely with underprivileged children.
At Manuski, my primary responsibility was to film case stories of children studying at the center. As I stepped into their world, I was met with raw and unfiltered realities—stories of resilience, struggles, and undying hope. The experience of capturing these stories was humbling. Every child I met had a unique narrative, yet a common thread bound them all—their unwavering spirit. One particular interaction left an indelible mark on my heart. I met a young girl whose infectious smile masked the hardships she endured daily. Despite facing adversity, she radiated warmth, exuding an optimism that was both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Her story reinforced a profound life lesson: resilience is not merely about enduring challenges but embracing them with courage and hope.
Through this internship, my understanding of social issues evolved beyond textbook knowledge. Seeing firsthand how systemic inequalities affect marginalized communities deepened my sense of empathy. The experience was overwhelming yet fulfilling, as it revealed the stark contrast between privilege and struggle. The staff at Manuski embodied selflessness, dedicating themselves to empowering these children with education and support. Their commitment to creating a nurturing environment taught me that true change stems from collective effort and unwavering dedication.
The skills and insights gained during my internship have left a lasting impact on me. Professionally, I honed my social media and digital marketing skills, which I plan to incorporate into future endeavors. Academically, documenting real-life stories enhanced my research and storytelling abilities. But the most profound transformation was personal—this journey broadened my perspective on life, instilling in me a deeper sense of gratitude, empathy, and social responsibility.
Reflecting on my experience, I believe that future interns at CYDA would greatly benefit from a structured orientation program, mentorship from experienced staff, and opportunities to work across multiple projects. Regular feedback sessions could also help interns align their contributions with the organization’s goals, maximizing their impact. Moreover, facilitating interactions between interns and community members would enrich their learning experience.
As I conclude this chapter of my journey, I carry forward the invaluable lessons learned at CYDA. The experience has reaffirmed my passion for social work, and I am determined to continue contributing to initiatives that foster positive change. CYDA did not just provide me with an internship—it gifted me a purpose, a deeper understanding of humanity, and a newfound commitment to making a difference in the world.
(This article is contributed by Bhakti Adsule, an intern from Abasaheb Garware College, Pune)
