By Aparna Sanyal, Designer, CYDA
Some experiences don’t just happen, they transform you. They stir something deep within, making you pause, reflect and look at life through a kinder, more compassionate lens. For me, one such experience was being part of the Stepping Stones program by CYDA (Centre for Youth Development and Activities).
When I first arrived at the Manshanti Training Center in Indapur, I thought it would be just another workshop. But over the next five days, the Stepping Stones program unfolded into an extraordinary journey of self-realization, relationships and empathy.
We began by sharing our fears and hopes, a simple act that instantly created trust. Each day we learnt something new, connected through sessions, conversations, role plays and even music and dance. The first day focused on communication, where I learnt it’s not about speaking but about listening with empathy. The second day challenged gender stereotypes, reflecting on how society’s expectations shape men and women differently and yet, how universal our human needs are. On day three, we explored love not as romance, but as respect, patience and open communication. The fourth day was unique. Through activities like body mapping, we discussed physical intimacy, consent and the difference between joyful and sorrowful sex. Finally, the last day centered on personal struggles, boundaries, and the courage to say “No.” Every session ended with reflections shared by both genders.
The intergenerational dialogue between men and women openly sharing about love, intimacy, and expectations was perhaps the most interesting. It was a safe, non-judgmental space that showed me the true power of empathy and how honest conversations can bridge even the deepest divides.
The days were filled with joy and learning– dances that made us laugh, role plays that made us think, and reflections that made us feel. But the most unforgettable part was the ’Sharing and Caring’ session on the last day. As participants began opening up about their personal journeys, the room was filled with raw honesty and emotions. From the elder participants, I learned about struggles that most of us cannot imagine: health challenges, near-death experiences, the pain of losing loved ones, and the constant battle of managing expectations. Despite everything life had thrown at them, they showed up every day like warriors, carrying a smile and radiating positivity. Their resilience was humbling.
On the other hand, the younger participants left me equally inspired. They spoke with such clarity, confidence and fearlessness, unapologetically owning their stories and their identities. Having personally struggled with self-esteem and the fear of being judged, their openness struck a chord with me. They reminded me that there’s nothing to fear in being authentic and that true strength lies in loving and accepting ourselves as we are. In fact, it was their courage that inspired me to open up and share my own experiences during those five days.
This session also made me reflect on something deeper: many of the people who shared their toughest battles were colleagues I work with or individuals I cross paths with in life. And yet, I had no idea of the struggles they were silently carrying. It was a powerful reminder that we never truly know what someone is going through and that kindness and compassion in our everyday interactions are not just virtues, they are necessities.
Every story, every perspective, every piece of wisdom added depth to this journey. Over those five days, what we built was more than learning- it was community, connection, and trust.
I’m deeply grateful to CYDA for creating such a safe and empowering space.
Heartfelt thanks to our incredible facilitators, Swati and Ankita, for leading with warmth and care. And a very special note of gratitude to Mr. Mathew Mattam, for his inspiring leadership and constant support throughout this journey.
Stepping Stones was a space for unlearning and relearning, reflecting and connecting. I walk away not only with knowledge, but with stories, friendships, and a stronger sense of self. And above all, with a reminder that empathy, openness and kindness can truly transform the way we live and connect with others.
