By Ananya
As a young professional eager to make a meaningful impact, joining CYDA as an intern was more than just an opportunity — it was a gateway to purpose-driven work and personal growth. CYDA, a dynamic organization committed to empowering marginalized communities, has woven the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) deep into its fabric. Here, CSR is not a checkbox — it’s a living, breathing philosophy that shapes every project, decision, and relationship.
From day one, I was immersed in a culture that prioritizes people, planet, and purpose. CYDA’s approach to CSR goes beyond compliance or charity. It reflects a profound commitment to advancing social change, creating opportunities for youth, women, and vulnerable groups, and embedding ethical practices in every corner of the organization. As an intern, I was encouraged not only to observe this impact but to actively contribute to it.
My initial assignment was within the recruitment team — a crucial pillar that keeps the organization vibrant and future-ready. Far from the stereotype of interns doing menial tasks, I was entrusted with responsibilities that stretched my abilities and expanded my understanding of meaningful work. I learned firsthand how recruitment at CYDA is more than filling vacancies; it’s about finding people who resonate with the organization’s mission and can amplify its social impact.
The recruitment process at CYDA is a masterclass in thoughtful, values-driven hiring. It starts with meticulous recruitment planning — identifying real needs, crafting precise job descriptions, and aligning every role with the larger organizational vision. I helped draft job posts that not only listed qualifications but also told a story, inviting passionate individuals to join a cause bigger than themselves.
Next came strategy development, where I supported the team in identifying the best outreach channels — from campus hiring and job fairs to online platforms and employee referrals. We weren’t just looking for resumes; we were searching for changemakers, people eager to leave their mark on the world. During the searching and screening phases, I worked alongside seasoned recruiters to review applications, participate in interviews, and witness the delicate art of balancing skills, potential, and cultural fit.
What struck me most was how deeply intertwined recruitment and CSR are at CYDA. Each hire was seen as an opportunity to strengthen the organization’s social fabric, whether by advancing gender equity, bringing in underrepresented voices, or cultivating young leaders from marginalized backgrounds. Here, talent was measured not only by degrees and experience but by empathy, resilience, and commitment to change.
Beyond recruitment, my internship exposed me to the broader landscape of CSR at CYDA — from sustainability initiatives and community outreach to advocacy and awareness campaigns. I saw how a strong CSR program elevates the organization’s brand, attracting not just beneficiaries but also investors, donors, and talented professionals who want to be part of something meaningful.
This experience transformed my understanding of what work can be. I realized that when companies and organizations prioritize CSR, they become magnets for both people and capital. They inspire trust, loyalty, and innovation. They don’t just survive; they thrive — and they uplift entire communities along the way.
My time at CYDA also reshaped my personal aspirations. I no longer think of a “good job” purely in terms of salary or title. Instead, I now seek workplaces where I can contribute to a greater purpose, where my efforts ripple out to touch lives and create real change.
In reflection, this internship was more than a professional stepping stone; it was a profound lesson in the power of combining mission with action. At CYDA, I didn’t just witness Corporate Social Responsibility — I lived it. And in doing so, I became part of a story far bigger than myself.
As I look ahead, I carry forward the invaluable lessons learned: that recruitment can be a force for inclusion, that CSR is both a strategy and a responsibility, and that meaningful work is the most powerful motivator of all.
