By Impactlens correspondent
Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA) celebrated its 27th anniversary on 16 January 2025 at YMCA, Ganesh Peth, Pune. The event brought together youth, community beneficiaries, board members, CSR partners, well-wishers, and staff. The celebration reflected CYDA’s long journey of working with marginalised communities and reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and youth-centred development.
The programme began with a welcome song by members of Youth4Change (Y4C), setting an energetic and positive tone for the evening. This was followed by the inaugural address by Ms Dilmeher Bhola, President, CYDA. She reflected on CYDA’s values and growth over the years and emphasised that the organisation has always stood with communities often left behind in the development process. She shared that through its integrated approach, CYDA has reached 17 states across India and is contributing meaningfully to 11 Sustainable Development Goals.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Shantaram Badgujar, Secretary, CYDA, spoke about the organisation’s strong belief in the power of young people. He shared that since its inception, CYDA has focused on empowering youth and trusting them to lead change within their own communities. He also highlighted current challenges, such as rising unemployment and stressed the need for future-ready interventions that move beyond creating job seekers to nurturing job creators.
A key moment of the evening was the induction of two new members to CYDA’s Board. Mr Pravin Jadhav, Executive Director, CYDA, introduced the new Board Members, strengthening the organisation’s leadership. Mr Abhinav Kumar, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ribbit Wallet, shared his personal journey with CYDA, recalling how he began as a volunteer and learned valuable life lessons through the organisation. He encouraged young people to engage with CYDA, invest in self-development, and contribute to nation-building. Dr. Sujata Kodog, Founder President of Eco-Logic Foundation, also joined the Board and urged youth to actively participate in environmental protection and disaster preparedness initiatives.
Youth and adolescents from Community Resource Centres and Youth Resource Centres presented a series of cultural performances during the event. These performances went beyond entertainment and conveyed strong social messages. Street plays such as Youth Aaj Kal and Komal Hoon par Kamzor Nahi highlighted the challenges faced by youth and women in today’s society. A Kathak dance by Jagdish, a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, captivated the audience and received special appreciation.
Another important segment of the programme was “CYDA’s Journey So Far and Looking Forward,” presented by Mr. Mathew Mattam, Founder, CYDA. He reflected on the organisation’s beginnings, key milestones, and future vision. He emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating that CYDA works closely with communities, CSR partners, and government institutions to create lasting impact. He also highlighted CYDA’s focus on sustainability beyond project cycles and its work through sister organisations such as YAG, YAF, RRF, TrashTech, and YEFI. He shared CYDA’s vision of reaching 10 million youth by 2035.
The celebration also recognised achievements and partnerships. Youth4Change winners and Staff Premier League winners were felicitated in the presence of CSR partners and guests, acknowledging the leadership and efforts of young changemakers and staff members. A special performance by CYDA staff added warmth and colour to the programme.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Vinayak Kadaskar, Head – HR & IR, CIE Automotive (India) Ltd, appreciated CYDA’s sustained grassroots work and long-term impact. He shared that CIE Automotive has been associated with CYDA since 2022 and has supported WASH programmes in 57 schools. He highlighted CYDA’s role in helping young people overcome difficult circumstances and grow into responsible citizens.
The event was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Mr. Prashant Sharma, Manager – CSR, CIE Automotive (India) Ltd; Mr. Sampat Mandave, Programme Coordinator – Western Zone, TDH; Mr. Saiful Haque, CSR Head, Bridgestone; and Mr. Vikram Maske, Manager – CSR, Garrett Motion. Several Board Members and senior members were present during the celebration, including Ms. Priyanka Sharma, Mr Shahaji Gadhire, Mr Nitesh Singroul, Mr Jay Krishna Jaiki, Ms. Neela Kale, Dr. Nitin Jadhav, Ms. Arokia Mery, Ms. Pramodini Naik, Mr Amol Shewale, Ms. Swati Baban Shirtar, and Mr Somnath Dabhade. Directors from CYDA’s sister organisations, including Ms. Jyotsna Bahirat from YAF and Mr Ashish Ingole from YAG, also attended the event.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Pravin Jadhav, Executive Director, CYDA. He shared that CYDA had received six national and international awards in the past year, made possible through the guidance of Board Members, the support of CSR partners, and the dedication of staff and volunteers. The 27th anniversary celebration stood as a reflection of CYDA’s continued commitment to empowering youth, strengthening communities, and building an inclusive and sustainable future.
