Tommaso and Gloria. First Month in Gurgaon: Learning, Teaching, and Growing Together

When we arrived in India, we knew that this project would be an opportunity to contribute to the community while also learning from the people around us. After our first month in Gurgaon, we can already say that the experience has been both rewarding and eye-opening.

Settling Into the Project

Our first two weeks were spent at the National Headquarters, where we completed immigration formalities, registrations, and orientation activities. This initial period helped us adapt to our new surroundings and gain a better understanding of the organization before beginning our work in the community.

Once we arrived in Gurgaon, we gradually became involved in the daily activities of the project. Working alongside local teachers and staff, we started supporting educational programs while learning about the routines and needs of the community.

Supporting Education and Community Development

The project focuses on education, women’s empowerment, and community awareness. During the mornings, we assist preschool teachers by supporting classroom activities and helping create a positive learning environment for young children. In the afternoons, we work with teenage girls, providing additional support in subjects such as science, biology, physics, mathematics, and English.

Beyond classroom activities, we have also participated in awareness sessions with women from the community. These meetings address important topics such as domestic microfinance and community participation, encouraging dialogue and empowerment.

Through these activities, we have come to understand how education can become a powerful tool for long-term social development, creating opportunities for personal growth and stronger community engagement.

Adapting to a New Environment

Adjusting to life and work in Gurgaon has been a gradual process. One of the first challenges we faced was adapting to the intense heat, which requires constant attention to hydration and daily routines. Communication has also occasionally been challenging due to language differences, although speaking Hindi has helped bridge gaps and strengthen connections with local people.

The welcoming attitude of teachers, colleagues, and community members has made the transition much easier. Their support has allowed us to feel increasingly confident in our educational roles and encouraged us to become more actively involved in project activities.

One of the most meaningful aspects of this first month has been building relationships with the teenage girls participating in the project. Their curiosity, determination, and enthusiasm for learning have inspired us and reinforced the value of the work being done here.

Looking Ahead

In the coming month, we hope to deepen our understanding of the local culture and the social realities that shape everyday life in the community. We are particularly interested in exploring issues related to gender equality, women’s roles in society, environmental awareness, hygiene, and climate-related challenges.

Our belief is that education and awareness can play a significant role in addressing social and environmental issues. By listening to teachers, students, women’s groups, and community members, we hope to gain a more nuanced understanding of both the challenges and strengths that exist within the community.

Tommaso and Gloria