I attended Synergy Sansthan’s first state-level youth conference, “Yuva Aagaz Yuva Aawaz,” on 11th August 2024. This was a pivotal moment for the organization, marking an expansion from district level efforts to influencing state-level discourse. This event brought together over 200 participants from across India- including community-based organizations, youth, funders, and other stakeholders- creating a unique platform for discussions on youth development, aimed at driving broader, state-wide impact.
As a youth-led nonprofit, Synergy Sansthan is deeply committed to empowering adolescents- particularly girls and youth from marginalized rural communities in Madhya Pradesh- by building skills, leadership, and awareness, while promoting inclusive youth collectives and entrepreneurship. This focus on youth empowerment is particularly critical in Madhya Pradesh, where many young people face significant challenges, including limited access to essentials like electricity, safe drinking water, proper housing, and sanitation. Unemployment rates are notably high among marginalized communities, and social inclusivity remains a pressing issue.
Synergy Sansthan is dedicated to addressing these challenges by creating opportunities for marginalized youth and supporting them to shape their own futures. The conference itself was more than just a gathering; it was a strategic step in Synergy Sansthan’s scaling journey. The panel discussions were designed to align with the organization’s vision, covering themes from youth active citizenship to health and wellbeing, and concluding with CSR, philanthropy, and youth development. These conversations highlighted how Synergy Sansthan’s local initiatives have evolved into leading state-level discussions that shape policies and strategies.
Central to Synergy Sansthan’s approach is the active involvement of youth in creating and shaping its programs. Rather than merely offering them a seat at the table, the organization engages them in building it, ensuring that initiatives genuinely reflect their needs and aspirations. This was particularly evident in the conference’s focus on critical issues like mental health and family support. It was emphasized that educational institutions should “take responsibility for the mental health and wellbeing of students by formally incorporating it in the objectives of the institution,” reinforcing Synergy Sansthan’s commitment to addressing real concerns and fostering a supportive environment for young people.
Furthermore, discussions with youth representatives and panelists emphasized the importance of designing programs based on youth input rather than external expectations. This aligns with Synergy Sansthan’s belief in active youth involvement throughout the planning process, demonstrating the organization’s dedication to creating a more responsive and inclusive framework for youth development.
Looking ahead, Synergy Sansthan has set an ambitious goal: to scale its youth-centric development programs to other districts in Madhya Pradesh over the next four years. The insights and connections gained from this event will be crucial in shaping the organization’s future strategies, as Synergy Sansthan continues its work to create a more just and inclusive society for the youth of Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
