I began my journey with CYSD as an intern on 20 May 2024, driven by a desire to explore the social sector and make a meaningful impact. After completing my PG Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations from IIMC, Delhi, and returning to Bhubaneswar, I wanted to work with a mission-based organisation that addresses critical issues like climate change. Having worked in the corporate world for five months, I realised that, while I was capable of doing a good job, it didn’t provide the job satisfaction and personal fulfilment I was seeking. CYSD, with its commitment to creating lasting change, felt like the right place for me.

On 1 July 2024, I transitioned from an intern to a full-time employee. As a communication professional at CYSD, my role extends far beyond the traditional scope. From creating and posting social media content to documenting inspiring success stories, content editing, designing banners, and even learning new skills like indexing archival footage. One of the things I love most about working here is the opportunity to meet and interact with professionals from diverse fields and age groups. Plus, the office environment, with its lush green garden filled with flowers, is a refreshing place to work.

The positive work culture at CYSD is truly commendable. My seniors have been incredibly supportive, especially our Co-Founder and Mentor, Shri Jagadananda Sir, whose guidance has been invaluable. He has set a clear goal for me—to develop into a communication officer within the next 1-2 years—and I’m grateful for his mentorship. I am equally thankful to my Manager, Jagat Parida for his deep insights into CYSD’s thematic pillars like livelihoods, disaster and climate change action, and education, as well as for encouraging me to experiment with ideas on our social media platforms. Special thanks also go to our HR Manager, Prachi Ma’am, for giving me the opportunity to be part of this wonderful organisation.

One of the highlights of my time here has been the chance to visit the urban slums of Dhirikuti and Sikharchandi in Bhubaneswar. Documenting how CYSD has improved health, nutrition, and sanitation situation in these areas has been a truly rewarding experience. It was heart-warming to witness the joy in the eyes of young mothers and children who are now more aware of how to access government schemes, enjoy more nutritious food, and live in cleaner, healthier environments. Seeing how empowered the local women and adolescent girls have become—monitoring Anganwadi centres and even working as paramedics—was particularly inspiring.

Additionally, CYSD has provided me with invaluable insights into how various sectors- government, corporate, and civil society organisation collaborate to uplift the most vulnerable populations, particularly the tribal communities in Odisha. I’ve learned about the transformative impact of the Mukhya Mantri Janajati Jeevika Mission, which has significantly improved livelihoods in the tribal regions.  I’ve learned about the Odisha Millet Mission, which is reintroducing millet—once a forgotten grain—back into mainstream diets, where it is now recognized as a superfood. I’ve also become more aware of the harsh realities faced by migrant workers and the ongoing exploitation many of them endure. Through CYSD, I’ve seen how dedicated efforts are being made to address these issues and prevent the exploitation of these workers. This knowledge has further deepened my understanding of the social sector and reaffirmed my commitment to the work we do. CYSD has not only allowed me to grow professionally but has also provided me with the satisfaction of knowing that the work we do is making a real difference in the lives of people in the last mile.

Ananya Ipsita Misra,CYSD