Jamshedpur: Youth Unity for Voluntary Action (YUVA), in partnership with the Rebuild India Fund, recently concluded a three-day leadership training camp at Sundarnagar. The initiative equipped 20 adolescent girls from villages with the tools to challenge gender discrimination and take on leadership roles within their communities.
Building Future Leaders
The participants, representing the villages of Judi Pahari, Baghlata, Bhutka, and Kashidih, engaged in intensive sessions led by chief instructor Jyoti Pinguwa. The camp focused on three pillars:
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Self-Confidence: Recognizing personal potential and vision.
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Effective Communication: Mastering active listening and verbal clarity.
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Problem-Solving: Developing decision-making abilities and teamwork.
Day 1: Vision and Role Models
The girls began their journey by defining the traits of a strong leader—emphasizing honesty, integrity, and responsibility. To inspire the group, the training showcased the life stories of global icons like Malala Yousafzai, Manal Al-Sharif, and Rosa Parks. A session on “Stereotypes” encouraged participants to reflect on and dismantle societal perceptions of women.
Day 2: Overcoming Obstacles
The second day focused on real-world challenges. Through case studies and group discussions, the participants analyzed systemic barriers such as:
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Unequal pay and professional discrimination.
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The burden of domestic responsibilities.
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Barriers to quality education.
Practical exercises followed, including a unique drawing activity where pairs practiced communication by creating art based solely on verbal instructions.
Empowering the Community
Project coordinators Chandrakala Munda and Shruti facilitated the program, ensuring a positive and interactive learning environment.
“This training empowers young girls to recognize their potential and prepare themselves for leadership roles,” said Jyoti Pinguwa. By examining social roles and rejecting discriminatory norms, these young leaders are now better prepared to advocate for change in their home villages.
