My Journey at YCB Winter 2023: A Week of Learning, Friendship, and Inspiration
The winter of 2023 will always hold a special place in my heart. It was when I attended YCB (Young Changemakers Bootcamp). What began as just another program quickly turned into one of the most memorable experiences of my student life, seven days filled with learning, laughter, and lifelong connections.
The very first day started with an exciting ice-breaker session, which instantly turned a group of strangers into friends. The energy in the room was infectious, everyone was eager to learn, collaborate, and grow together. By the end of the day, we were already cheering for each other like a close-knit team. Day two took us on a delightful local trip to Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate. Walking through those historic places with a group of like-minded peers felt surreal, we weren't just tourists; we were young dreamers exploring the roots of our nation's leadership and history.
The following days were packed with insightful sessions and workshops, each one sparking new ideas and perspectives. One of the most memorable sessions was on Creativity and Innovation by Professor Anuj Grover from IIIT Delhi, whose words made us rethink what it truly means to create and to lead. Another highlight was learning about Entrepreneurship; not from textbooks, but through real-life experiences and practical discussions that opened our minds to endless possibilities.
A major highlight of the bootcamp was the 'My Idea for Change' competition. It challenged us to think critically about the issues around us and come up with innovative solutions. The mentors were incredibly supportive throughout, offering valuable feedback and encouragement that pushed us to refine our ideas. But beyond the sessions and competitions, what truly made YCB unforgettable were the people. The mentors, participants, and organizers created an environment where everyone felt heard and valued. I had the privilege of meeting some of the most inspiring people in the industry and the sweetest mentors who genuinely cared about our growth.
A heartfelt thank you to Aniket bhaiya, the visionary founder of The Tale of Humankind, for creating such a meaningful platform. And special appreciation to Ayushi didi, Kumar bhaiya and Twisha didi; their constant support, warmth, and friendship made being away from home so much easier. As I look back, YCB Winter 2023 wasn't just a bootcamp, it was a transformative journey that nurtured confidence, creativity, and courage. It reminded me that change starts small, often with an idea, a conversation, or even a week that changes everything.