AASHAYEIN- Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations!

-Vidur Dhabaria, 08th August, 2017

The stage is set…for Aashayein by Cascade 25, Jamnabai Narsee School, Mumbai

When an idea exclusively occupies the mind, it is transformed into an actual physical or mental state”- Swami Vivekananda.

Cascade” — an inter-school event organized by Jamnabai Narsee Alumni Association (JNAA) successfully completed its second year of “Aashayein-Umeed ki Udaan” — an inter NGO event on 5th August, 2017. The event idea which premiered last year actually transformed into a platform which provided “umeed” and “udaan” to the participants from 13 NGOs this year.

Leading towards light! JNS Principal Ms Zeenat Bhojabhoy and Mr. Raunak Kapoor, Chairperson Cascade 25

Some background before continuing, Vivekananda Youth Forum (VYF) was one of the participating NGOs and I was given an opportunity to volunteer for managing and looking after its participating students.

So Aashayein turned out to be one the best events I have ever witnessed on 3 aspects- Cascade volunteers, VYF volunteers & VYF students of Sandhyalaya.

Community Service is voluntary and comes straight from the heart. Cascade volunteers were an integral part of Aashayein who ensured that all students across NGOs enjoyed their day. From receiving the students on an early Saturday morning to playing games with them to helping them with refreshments, and the list goes on..they were perfect! Organising such an event requires tremendous effort, a lot of planning, micro managing a plethora of aspects. I am inspired by all the volunteers dedication, simplicity and patience. Their actions were a live example of selfless service in today’s era of selfishness. Thank you Team Cascade, you made VYF’s day & mine too!

Every child received loving attention during lunch break!
Ms Radha and other JNS volunteers ensured every child enjoyed the day!

Moving to volunteers at VYF, they have been on their toes throughout! Again, a source of inspiration for all of us! In a span of 10 days, our volunteers Aayushi Didi, Unnati Didi & their friends choreographed 2 songs for our dance participants who took part in Aashayein! The contentment on the faces of our students was touching. Thanks to the Team of choreographers, VYF’s students got an opportunity to showcase their talent in front of an audience of close to 1000 people. In addition, with the new batch of volunteers who have joined us, a new energy level has been created!

AayushiDi and Nandini practicing!

Lastly, VYF students participated in — solo singing as well as solo and group dancing and art events at Aashayein. They gave their best & performed whole-heartedly! Participation is necessary, winning is secondary! The children are glad they got a chance to perform still the joy of winning is different! Although disappointed that they couldn’t win they are motivated and ready to be back with a bang next year! The exposure they received at the event has given them a boost to do more & bank on opportunities like Aashayein!

On an early Saturday morning….bright eyes and smiles!

P.S.: My volunteering journey at VYF completes 3 years today. It has been a journey which is filled with blessings and learning. VYF is now more like a family with the kids and volunteers. The founders of VYF have always encouraged & supported me in various activities. I am also grateful to all my co-volunteers, Didis & kids from whom I have learnt a lot and who have been a constant support.

With Sandhyalaya Alumnus SaddamBhaiya and current student Jeevan preparing for a presentation session!

Vidur is a volunteer at VYF, a Second Year BMS Student of Narsee Monjee College of Comm. & Eco., Mumbai. He is a proud Rotaractor, loves cricket and his hobbies include photography, learning French and research based study.

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VYF formed in 1987 is a non-profit, voluntary organization managed by young members who wish to make a difference, empower those less fortunate in education etc

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