My Jagriti Yatra: A transformative journey
Aimed at inspiring youth to become entrepreneurs, Jagriti Yatra takes them across India, empowering them and helping them imbibe insights from experts, premier institutions and each other.
I felt a sense of anticipation and excitement for the journey ahead, when I boarded a train in Mumbai. It was a unique train journey. Because I was on the Jagriti Yatra. It’s a journey across the length and breadth of India, which starts from the Maharashtra capital. Along with 5 role models this year, Jagriti Yatra participants travelled over 8,000 km to 10 destinations and attended four G20 mega events in two weeks.
It is a train journey that aims to inspire and empower young individuals like me to become entrepreneurs. The initiative has been fostering entrepreneurship in India for 15 years. It has already made a significant impact on more than 7,500 youngsters from over 20 countries, including India.
What makes this journey unique is its focus on tier-2 and tier-3 districts of India, where the potential for entrepreneurship is immense.
This year, Jagriti Yatra partnered with Startup20 India, a G20 initiative, to accelerate the global entrepreneurship movement. It was unique Yarta because there were participants from 20 countries.
Rural role models
When I embarked on the Jagriti Yatra, little did I know that the next two weeks would be a transformative experience that would lead to self-discovery and alter my perspective on cultural immersion and entrepreneurship.
Also Read: Enterprising women: Stories of inspiring micro-entrepreneurs in Maharashtra
Alongside 500-odd participants from diverse backgrounds, I had the privilege of accompanying 10 inspiring women entrepreneurs from rural communities who are true changemakers. These women leaders have overcome adversity to become role models in their communities, paving the way for change in the area of microenterprise in some of the most remote villages of Uttar Pradesh.
Throughout the 14-day, 8,000-km train journey across India, I shared not only physical space but also stories and dreams with these inspiring women.
A path to self–discovery
The journey was a reflection of my own personal growth, weaving external diversity with internal exploration, as we travelled from the bustling city of Mumbai to the tranquil landscapes of Sriharikota.
Each stop on the itinerary, including Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Sriharikota, the Akshaya Patra Foundation in Visakhapatnam, Gram Vikas in Brahmapur, the ghats in Varanasi, Jagriti Enterprise Centre – Purvanchal (JECP) in Deoria and Dr Ambedkar International Centre in Delhi, left a lasting impression on me.
Living with the women for two weeks was a humbling experience and taught me the true meaning of empowerment. I learned that humility, appreciation and a strong sense of purpose are the keys to success.
A transformative experience
A few particular memories stand out vividly amidst the entire experience. Most of these women, despite having defied societal norms with their innovative businesses, shattering barriers and leaving a lasting impact on their communities, were venturing outside of their familiar surroundings for the first time, making this an extraordinary opportunity for them. Their gratitude was palpable and their infectious joy was impossible to ignore.
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Initially hesitant and guarded, the women entrepreneurs gradually found a unique kind of happiness and freedom. At the beginning of the journey, they were unsure of how to engage with the diverse group of participants surrounding them and shielded themselves behind me all the time.
However, as the days passed, I witnessed a transformative moment that left me awestruck. One of them, who had initially hesitated to converse, courageously introduced herself in flawless English to a participant from a different country. This act was a testament to the profound impact of the journey, which not only traversed physical landscapes but also transcended personal boundaries.
How Jagriti Yatra connects people
As the journey continued, the women broke down the walls of hesitancy and built bridges of connection. They mingled effortlessly with other participants, forming bonds that transcended age, culture and background.
In a symbolic gesture of newfound freedom, one of these inspiring women adorned herself in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt for the first time in her life. This transformative wardrobe change was not merely about clothing; it symbolised the breaking of chains and embracing of new possibilities. The outfit was a gift from a fellow participant, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and shared experiences that defined the Jagriti Yatra.
These women were more than mere co-passengers on a train. They actively engaged in learning about the concepts of circular economy and the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness in business. Ideas that were once foreign to them became integral to their newfound understanding. Their exposure to individuals from all corners of India and 17 countries broadened their horizons. Their presence was acknowledged, which bolstered their confidence further.
A catalytic journey
Witnessing the temporary role reversal and the resulting independence of these women during the 14 days away from their families was truly captivating. This experience acted as a catalyst for their self-discovery, empowerment and realisation of their own potential.
Also Read: Papads and pickles empower women in Maharashtra
As the Jagriti Yatra came to an end, I was left with more than just memories of stunning landscapes and interactions with inspiring leaders. I also took with me the unwavering determination of the remarkable women entrepreneurs who have become change makers in their communities despite facing countless obstacles.
The Jagriti Yatra is not just a train journey, but a significant chapter in the story of empowerment, reminding us that true change starts with individuals who dare to dream big and embrace unexpected risks.
The lead image shows some of the rural women entrepreneurs who embarked on the Jagriti Yatra. (Photo by Rupali Singh)
Rupali Singh, an engineer by training, became a development professional seven years ago. A certified POSH (Prevention of sexual harassment) trainer, she currently works as Associate Practitioner, Transform Rural India.
