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1. Tell us more about yourself and your life.
For as long as I can remember I have wanted to make a difference.
As a teenager, I was one of the 'silent observers'. On this one particular day, my grandmother spent her birthday with senior citizens at an old age home by helping all those in need. Being so moved by her wonderful gesture, I realized that from then on – I would dedicate some time in my life to make a positive impact in this world.
Amidst my frantic search in finding ways in which I could help out, I was fortunate enough to find Dr. Iyer and IDF. They have completely changed the way I perceive life and people around me, and I am genuinely very thankful for that.
2. What led you into social activism?
"Choose a job you love and you never have to work a day in your life." - Confucius
Engaging in social work is a gift in that you are allowed into the intimate lives of wonderful people in your efforts to assist them in their journey of recovery, where victims become survivors, and systems bend to meet the needs of the most vulnerable individuals in our society.
By working in this field I am able to empower, connect, and encourage resilience: to challenge stereotypes and avoid fallacies as well as fight discrimination, oppression and injustice, no matter the form. In this field, I get to be a voice for all who cannot advocate for themselves. Making this world a better place one person at a time, is worth it.
3. What is the one cause you care deeply about and why?
I care very deeply about two social causes: Education for Children and Care provided to Orphans.
Most people in developed nations take education for granted. Kids go to school and can even go to college if they wish, but for millions of children throughout the rest of the world, this is not the reality. Improving access to education is one of the most important causes one could possibly contribute to, and it can positively impact the lives of countless children. The youth are the future of this world. We should empower them.
Orphans go through much more than what is seen at the surface. Not having parents - one's prime guiding figures in life - does undoubtedly make life very difficult. By 'care', I am referring to providing affection and opportunities. This cause is important for ensuring that all kids have the same opportunities - regardless of their family or background.
4. If one wants to contribute and make a difference in social causes, how can one do so?
You can always find a way to help out.
- Feel strongly about a social issue: If one wants to make a difference, one must first believe in what he/she is fighting for. When one feels passionately about it, there is no stopping them!
- Volunteer: Many young people volunteer in some way these days: whether it’s a teaching to animal care and conservation work to fighting for equal rights, you can make a real difference! To start with, focus on how you can help your local area or a cause within your country.
- Use online platforms to reach others: There’s never been a greater time in history for reaching out to millions of people around the world. You’ve probably seen how a single Twitter hashtag can create massive social awareness. What hashtags can you contribute to, or even create?
- Giving other young people a role: One of the best ways you can make a difference is to inspire others to join you. Not only are you teaching other young people about important issues, but you’re encouraging them to teach others too.
Indian Development Foundation (IDF) has a lot of volunteering programs in the domains of Health, Education and Development. Reaching out to us is the very first step to make a difference!
5. Who is your role model and why?
Apart from my parents and grandparents, one person who is had a very significant impact in my life is Dr. Narayan Iyer.
Dr. Iyer has shown me that not everything in life comes easily to you. You need to work hard and try over and over again to make a difference in this world. He is a pillar of fortitude and humility. Even though he might have had the worst of days, he will always greet you with a smile on his face. While serving you, he will also ensure your helpers are also served. We really need more selfless people like him in the world!
I am so fortunate to have Dr. Iyer as my friend, guide and mentor.
6. What are some challenges and roadblocks you have faced along your journey?
There are many challenges that are constantly faced in Social Activism.
The first challenge is the inescapable fact that a change agent cannot and never should swoop into a community and expect to immediately change things for that community: "you cannot just go in and cure things", it takes a continued efforts for a long period of time. Another challenge is the fact that well planned community advancement programs do not always reach those for whom they were primarily intended. Somehow the combination of lack of education, and messaging that does not reach its intended audience beats the best intentions of the best educators and change agents.
7. What is your opinion about social media activism?
While there’s plenty of precedent for youth-led movements throughout history, the social media age has changed everything for young activists. Their organizing savvy on social media provides opportunities to transcend traditional institutional gatekeepers, assists with fundraising either via crowdfunding platforms like FuelADream, and allows for movements to be truly youth-driven, using platforms that don't require adults, like Instagram. A hashtag like #MarchForOurLives or #BlackLives Matter neatly bundles a message that can explain an entire movement, and it can spread like wildfire through the networks young activists are able to harness.
Interview By - Anshul Chauhan
About Saumya Kothari:
Saumya Kothari is an aspiring social activist who is the Social & Goodwill Ambassador of the NGO – Indian Development Foundation (IDF). He strongly advocates and believes that together we can make the world a better place to live in. Saumya has been the Headboy of The Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai is currently studying at the Indian Institute of Management, Indore. Currently, Saumya holds the post of Social Placements Committee Coordinator at his college. The sui generis nature of Saumya distinguishes him: A voice for the silent, an advocate of hope and empathy in an endless system of needless bureaucracy, a young adult who reflects all the positives that our society is in dearth of. This is an oversimplified summary of Saumya Kothari’s character.
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