Author: Matthew Mattam
Publisher: Adhyyan Books
Publication Date: December 2023
Matthew Mattam’s Tread the Road Less Travelled is a riveting narrative that captures the transformative 25-year journey of the Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA). This book is not just a historical recounting but an evocative exploration of passion, resilience, and collective spirit, making it an indispensable resource for anyone invested in grassroots development and youth empowerment.
From the outset, the book establishes itself as an engaging chronicle of CYDA’s evolution, detailing its humble inception in Pune in 1999 and its expansion across seven Indian states. Matthew, as both the founder and storyteller, intertwines his personal journey with CYDA’s organizational growth, presenting a unique blend of autobiography and institutional history. This dual perspective enriches the narrative, offering profound insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a grassroots organization.
A Deep Dive into Volunteerism and Community Service.
One of the book’s standout aspects is its exploration of the spirit of volunteerism. Matthew provides an unvarnished account of the challenges faced by CYDA, including resource constraints, skepticism, and the intricate balancing act of maintaining grassroots authenticity while scaling operations. These challenges are not portrayed as deterrents but as opportunities that shaped CYDA’s innovative and resilient character.
Through anecdotes and reflections, the author vividly portrays how the organization transformed obstacles into stepping stones, creating impactful programs for marginalized youth. The stories of CYDA’s beneficiaries and team members are especially moving, offering a glimpse into the real-world impact of their initiatives.
Lessons for Grassroots Development.
Matthew’s narrative is rich with lessons for grassroots organizations, particularly those operating in socio-economically diverse environments. He underscores the importance of adaptability, community-centric approaches, and fostering a shared vision among team members and stakeholders. The book also delves into the intricacies of fundraising and creating sustainable opportunities, highlighting how crises can be catalysts for innovation.
For those involved in developmental work, the book serves as a manual on harnessing collective energy to achieve social transformation. Matthew’s passion for empowering young people shines through, making the book a powerful call to action for fostering leadership and resilience among youth.
As one of CYDA’s founding members, I found Tread the Road Less Travelled to be a deeply personal and evocative read. Matthew’s skillful portrayal of individuals who played pivotal roles in CYDA’s journey resonates deeply, capturing the essence of their contributions. The narrative beautifully encapsulates the collective efforts, diverse personalities, and unwavering dedication that have defined CYDA’s mission.
While celebrating CYDA’s achievements, the book also underscores an unfulfilled dream: establishing a dedicated office space for the organization. This vision symbolizes more than a physical structure—it represents a hub for innovation, collaboration, and sustained impact. Matthew’s heartfelt appeal for support is both inspiring and pragmatic, urging readers to contribute to a cause that has already transformed countless lives.
Conclusion
Tread the Road Less Travelled is a tribute to the enduring spirit of community service and the transformative power of grassroots initiatives. Matthew Mattam has masterfully captured the soul of CYDA, offering an inspiring testament to what a dedicated group of individuals can achieve.
This book is a must-read for development professionals, youth leaders, and social entrepreneurs. It reminds us that meaningful change is possible when driven by passion, resilience, and a collective commitment to uplift others.
As CYDA looks toward the future, the book leaves readers with a compelling call to action: to join hands in turning the dream of dedicated office space into reality, ensuring that the organization continues to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for generations to come. (Book reviewed by Manvendra Nath Sanyal, Board Member, CYDA)
