“I have a lot to say, but what if my voice goes unheard? Do I have a space to freely share my thoughts? What if they judge me?” Isn’t this a concern for many adolescents?
Creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment is crucial for the success and well-being of adolescents. It’s not solely the responsibility of educators; in fact, involving youth as active contributors to this mission can yield remarkable results. At VOICE 4 Girls, we believe in empowering the youth to play a role in shaping a secure and inclusive classroom—a reality actively under construction. In this blog, we’ll explore the transformative power of youth (counsellors) and how they can turn a classroom into a sanctuary of learning and growth.
Here, I’d like to highlight one of the most important aspects that involve youths as contributors for social change, resulting in incredible changes in any sector. I’d like to quote something published on the blog of the Times of India:
“The youth of India can play a pivotal role in addressing pressing social issues, such as gender inequality, poverty, and environmental degradation. Through community engagement, volunteering, and social activism, they can champion causes that resonate with their values. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world,’ the youth can inspire transformative actions and bridge the gap between intent and impact.”
– Times of India
In a classroom full of adolescents (campers), young women and men empower the campers by educating them about their health, safety, rights, future planning, and self-awareness. They enlighten them about their rights to thrive in a world that aspires to gender equality. As these young minds step into the classroom, they ensure to create a friendly environment where children’s voices are heard, and their opinions are valued. Encouraging children to express their thoughts about various aspects and actively participate in class helps them become more confident.
Though V4G has trained these college students, who act as counsellors, in various techniques to handle the campers in their classrooms, such as organizing the classroom, addressing the campers, and using techniques to grab their attention, beyond these skills, the intrinsic motivation and knowledge that counsellors bring to the classroom hold significant weight. At times, counsellors reflect on their own adolescent experiences, recognizing the absence of opportunities they had to learn accurate information and facts. This awareness extends to understanding that gender plays no role in one’s capabilities; both boys and girls possess the potential to shape their careers. Such realizations come amidst societal constraints, where girls are often expected to marry early, and boys are burdened with family responsibilities. Educating adolescents is crucial in preparation for life’s challenges that may come their way.
It’s not just about space or discussions, but also about addressing health, safety, the changes they are going through, and their rights to raise their voice against injustice and career planning. Students need to know about the streams they can choose after the 10th grade. These are the conversations that are often neglected in the school classroom. When counsellors step into the classroom and start teaching these things, the campers (students) immediately reflect on themselves and their experiences.
Initially, some campers may find these discussions odd, but as they delve into the topics day by day, they start thinking and sharing their thoughts and opinions. Certain social practices stop campers (students) from knowing the facts, like, for instance, girls not being able to talk about periods with their parents. When a boy starts crying, people might say things like “You should not cry like a girl,” but it’s important to remember that it’s okay for boys to let out their emotions and to know about their bodies and what’s exactly happening to them.
These types of conversations can help campers (students) become more aware, enabling them to take steps to educate and raise awareness among the younger generation in their communities. When it comes to career planning, the counsellors who lead them are often in higher education and can provide valuable insights into various courses and career paths.
When I enter the V4G classroom and ask campers about the best part of a V4G session, their immediate response is often about the counsellors and the invaluable information they receive. They appreciate the guidance on their bodies, safety, career planning, and life skills gained during their time here.
Sharing some instances that counsellors felt that a safe space is about.
Mounika, who was a counsellor, said that she believes that the key to connecting with children is through positivity, genuine love, and a big, welcoming smile. When we listen and genuinely value their thoughts, it creates a safe space for them to open up. Creating this safe space is not just about learning but also nurturing their desire to learn and grow.
Akshitha, who was a counsellor, shared that creating a safe classroom for campers hinges on two things: the physical space and the facilitator. The space should feel welcoming, organized, and themed to spark curiosity. The facilitator builds trust through open communication, discussing various topics, and offering a judgment-free zone for personal matters. This environment cultivates a sense of togetherness among campers, empowering them to make confident, empathetic decisions.
The journey of creating safe learning spaces for adolescents is a collective effort that involves empowering both educators and youth as active contributors. At VOICE 4 Girls, we recognize the transformative power of youth, our invaluable counsellors, who turn classrooms into sanctuaries of learning and growth. As we reflect on the profound impact of these interactions, we witness the emergence of confident, informed, and empowered young minds ready to shape their futures. The commitment to addressing pressing social issues and fostering inclusivity in education is not merely an aspiration; it is a tangible reality we actively shape. As we continue this journey, let’s celebrate the positive changes sparked within these safe spaces and amplify the voices of the youth who are becoming the change they wish to see in the world.
Written by:
Priyanka Toomkunta
VOICE 4 Girls 