By Adya Das.
When I first heard about CYDA (Centre for Youth Development and Activities) through my PGDM college’s CSR initiative, I was immediately drawn to its core values—empowering young people and working toward inclusive community development. It felt like more than just an opportunity to earn credits; it felt like a chance to create real impact. What started as a college assignment quickly evolved into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
My time at CYDA was centered around two programs: Manuski and 10 Stitch—each unique and powerful in its own way.
In the Manuski program, I had the privilege of teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to a group of 30 to 40 underprivileged students. Preparing lessons that were fun, interactive, and easy to grasp became our daily goal. It wasn’t just about formulas or facts—it was about lighting a spark of curiosity and building self-belief among children who had limited access to quality education. Seeing their excitement when they understood a concept or asked a thoughtful question was deeply rewarding. One moment that etched itself in my memory was when a young girl, eyes gleaming with ambition, told us she wanted to be an engineer after our session. It reminded me how powerful even a small gesture or conversation can be in shaping someone’s dreams.
Parallel to this, I was also engaged in the 10 Stitch program. This initiative focuses on vocational training for women, particularly stitching and tailoring, as a pathway to economic self-reliance. During our visits to the centers, I saw women who were not just learning a skill but reclaiming their independence. They took immense pride in their work, carefully crafting beautiful items that could support their families and affirm their dignity. Witnessing this transformation—of skills becoming confidence and confidence becoming empowerment—was incredibly moving.
This experience reshaped how I view development work and social responsibility. I began to understand that real, lasting change is rooted at the grassroots level. Empowering communities—whether through education or livelihood skills—is the foundation of sustainable progress. I also realized how vital it is to listen. Active listening and empathy, more than any academic theory, help us truly connect with people and support them in ways that matter.
Volunteering at CYDA also gave me a platform to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I improved my public speaking, learned classroom management, enhanced my teamwork and adaptability skills, and developed a genuine understanding of field realities. These lessons will stay with me and shape both my career and my worldview. I now aspire to integrate social impact into my professional journey—whether through CSR, development consulting, or social entrepreneurship.
If I were to suggest improvements, I believe a structured orientation session at the beginning would help new volunteers integrate more effectively. Access to interactive teaching resources and mentorship from past volunteers could also make the learning curve smoother and the impact deeper.
The visual memories of this journey speak volumes too. One photo captures a joyful moment of bonding and learning between volunteers and students—highlighting the collective spirit of the Manuski sessions. Another image shows a proud participant of the 10 Stitch program holding up her stitched product—a symbol of her progress and hope. The third picture shows students attentively participating in a session under a canopy of colorful decorations—an image that beautifully represents the creativity, enthusiasm, and potential that thrives within such programs.
Volunteering with CYDA was not just an internship. It was an eye-opener, a confidence-builder, and above all, a heartwarming experience that made me more aware, more compassionate, and more driven to make a difference. I am truly thankful to CYDA for welcoming me into their world and giving me this enriching opportunity. The memories and values I’ve taken from here will stay with me forever.
