Rubaroo
NehaSwain, MonishaVemavarapu andHemaKhatri are old friends who were united by life experiences that allowed them to reflect and grow as individuals. Each placed great significance on these journeys and wanted others to also get the opportunity to grow and reflect into empathetic, inclusive citizens. Thus in 2013 Neha, Monisha and Hema founded Rubaroo. Rubaroo, meaning coming face-to-face in Urdu, provides a space for self-discovery and reflection through a range of activities for adolescents.
Intent (ambition):Rubaroo aims to create an inclusive, just and equitable world where individuals can break through societal boundaries by developing a genuine engagement with the self and society.
Idea: Rubaroo creates a safe space where adolescents are brought face-to-face with themselves, others and their community so they can develop their social leadership qualities and create an equitable society. To achieve this, Rubaroo facilitates conversations and experimental learning through workshops, volunteering, exposure visits, camps, and film screenings to curate self-reflective journeys and new experiences. Furthermore, Rubaroo aims to build a community of teachers, educators, parents and care givers to increase the network of support for adolescents and assist them in their transformative journeys.
Impact: Society is laced with social exclusion based on caste, creed, gender and class which determines the amenities and privileges people have access to. As such, we live within our societal boundaries which leads to irrational stereotypes, judgements and intolerance towards each other. Rubaroo creates a space beyond family, friends and colleagues where individuals can explore their self and society. Consequently, Rubaroo has helped many adolescents to overcome prejudices and societal boundaries to live happier, more inclusive lives.
BVIC’s Intervention:Rubaroo was already establish social startup when it became part of SOCENT Fellowship. BVIC supported it in scaling up and expanding its horizons. The workshops and seminars helped founders in acquiring essential skills such as proposal and grant writing, approaching investors and CSRs, and forging new partnerships.