"Hi, Urbi here. Welcome to Thoughtshop.
I volunteered here, as Peer Leader for the 5 years that I was in University, and every moment was rich with fun and learning. It was a space of total warmth and unconditionality, where I could just Be.
My work included holding workshops with young people. Issues were explored through games and torrid discussions, through open and empathetic listening and simply bonding over cups of tea! It was a space where our minds opened up, and we came to understand that each of us was unique, and each had something to offer if only we could stop feeling shy and come out of our shells (and that we surely did!).

We were all part of the peer network “Ignited Minds” (the name for our movement we all vigorously brainstormed upon) and after screening and training, we found ourselves going out to schools, colleges and other youth spaces with what we had learned.

Additionally some peers were given the opportunity to handle ASKLINE. After careful selection and training by a professional counselor, we began handling calls on anything ranging from sexuality and HIV/AIDS to the dilemmas of relationships and in general, the pains of growing up! Since we were around the same age group of the callers, we found it easier to relate and understand their story.

At the end of the day, the feeling of being able to reach across to so many people was so satisfying and uplifting that you have to do it to know it!"

Urbi Bhaduri

Urbi is teaching college level English, and assisting in research at the Jadavpur University, Kolkata.

Feb 2006