Nicola, YCA Australia

I came to Janaagraha on a ten week internship through Youth Challenge Australia, excited to experience life in India and to gain an understanding into the workings of an NGO and the diversity of issues facing India as a rapidly growing democracy. Working as a research intern I have been involved in developing grant proposals to help fund future research projects at Janaagraha and have set up a database of national and global organisations committed to the same goals as Janaagraha; to provide opportunities for future collaboration and knowledge sharing. Despite my focus on research, working as an intern has allowed me to be exposed to the diverse activities undertaken by Janaagraha. Attending Monday morning staff meetings has given me a wonderful insight into some of Janaagrahas current projects such as WISA, Bala Janaagraha and CAP. I was also fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend the launch of the JaagteRaho! Campaign. Less than halfway through my internship, I have already learned so much and I am enjoying working with a passionate group of people committed not to a job but to a cause. Working at Janaagraha reminds me to “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”