The concept of giving back should not be viewed as philanthropy or charity. A commitment to give back to the community; to fund, to create, to encourage, to promote, to fulfill. SabTera an NGO that provides a level playing field for the under-resourced communities in Punjab in the field of alternative education, community building and livelihoods. These are just some of the initiatives taken by the Foundation. In talks with Nimrit Nain, Project Director at the SabTera Foundation India, tells us the importance of “giving back.”
How do you “give back” to the society? Tell us about your approach?
The idea of creating an ecosystem where communities come together and take collective actions for common problems, is not new but people are different from place to place and that is fascinating enough. In India, these opportunities are plenty; many low-income areas that are looking for support from education to livelihoods to day-to-day challenges are the areas I am working at. From starting a creative integral school, to looking at sports’ areas to help build a stronger, healthier, happier and safer community, and at the same time empowering women in the low-income group through livelihood and education.
How do you plan to address the issues plaguing our society?
Mainly showing up everyday and listening to the community — what is it that they want. Innovation is the key, trying simple yet effective ways of management. Facilitating and empowering without making anyone dependent on you. The feeling of being cared for.
What inspires you? What was your childhood ambition?
Impacting life or lives and making a difference in anyone’s life is inspiring enough. I enjoy being in spaces where life is buzzing with ideas and new thoughts.
I think I was in a creative environment and that enabled me to think differently. My parents are artists, thought readers and we often engaged in intense conversations. As a child though, I liked playing house with dolls or teacher. I could happily play by myself.
How did your education help in furthering your career plans?
Schooling, I did all through in boarding schools, which taught me to be independent. I don’t think our schools were equipped to handle thriving minds, it was a set and very regimented routine. But amongst ourselves we had fun. I graduated in English Honours as that was what I enjoyed the most given the options we had then.
I enjoyed writing and immediately applied to various magazines. I got selected at First City magazine, beginning my career as a journalist.
What were challenges you faced and how did you overcome hurdles?
The biggest hurdle is taking on work and can hardly say no. I’m consciously trying to say no to a few things.
What are your suggestions for the new age women professionals?
Things are already on an upswing for women. Learn to work in teams effectively and negotiate your way well. Learn to take feedback well; also clearly stand by your conviction. It comes with time and if you are first- generation workers in the professional world, a few things will be harder to understand but you will with time. Managing time especially when you are good multi-taskers; and use it effectively.
Keep expanding your mind, evolve and believe in yourself. Nothing can go wrong if you are true to yourself.
Remember there is nothing as a mistake. What you did and the decision you made couldn’t have been any other even if the outcome didn’t go according to you then.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
To inspire and create a cohesive space of letting everyone thrive to do the best they can.
How do you unwind?
I enjoy working out, love a swim, even enjoy being a couch potato once in awhile.