Orator, leader, change-maker

Any social problem requires out-of-the-box thinking. And to this effect comes this latest initiative which highlights social problems by bringing the younger generation together to raise their voice to create change. Since time immemorial, we have seen adults speak about social issues like body positivity, bullying, etc. Yet, when youngsters form a forum to bring about change... it connects with their peers. The YLAC (Young Leaders for Active Citizenship) along with Instagram India, through their Counter Speech Fellowship, gives youngsters a platform to increase participation in bringing about a change.

Talking to youngsters who are a part of this fellowship, we find out why it’s important for the youth to come out and talk about such matters in public.

Art and Culture can help bring about change: Ishit Uppaadhaya, a singer and social advocate says, “The idea of using  art, music, poetry, and other forms of media to advocate for change was very unique. This allowed me to make a difference in the world as a teenager through the best tool I have — the Internet. Being able to combine my creativity and passion for music with awareness and activism enables me to better society while doing what I love.”

It tends to create a ripple effect: When your own peers talk about issues like body positivity, bullying, we tend to relate to it. Kushi Athreya adds, “I have learnt to broaden my perspective and also  gotten insights into many socially important issues like body positivity, mental well-being etc. While using such platforms, we have managed to cause a ripple effect. “

Social media can help: Although it has a negative influence, it is one of those platforms that actually allows you share stories. Anushka Singh says, “My favourite aspect of it is when I run an Instagram Story where people can share their stories. When I asked people about how they would stop a bully, the kind of warmth and spirit that I saw in the replies showed me that people care. This also led to a few people reaching out privately to share experiences they’ve had with bullies, giving us a chance to just help them feel listened to.”

Young people are the ones the are going to take over the mantle of leadership in society and who better than them to talk about such issues. Rohit Kumar, Founder of YLAC, says,”I feel that it is important to get them started soon. Where they realise their potential to bring about change. The idea is to get youngsters to start talking about issues they care about. These small steps will lead to bigger things. We tend to take things more seriously when they come through your peers as there is more authenticity to these things.”