I truly think that I was living in a bubble till I started working at AXF. I was required to work at an NGO over the summer of my first year at university. I chose AXF as it suited my limited time frame. But the one month I spent here widened my perspective by challenging me and pushing me out of my comfort zone.
Realizing a new me and making new friends
I had never done volunteer work of any kind before, so the AXF experience was really new. Additionally, I had never worked with kids. So, I was supported unconditionally by all the senior volunteers. Initially, I was assisting a few teachers but gradually started conducting classes myself.
Some of my favorite memories were created post class hours, when I would be chatting with the students, listening to their stories from school and telling them mine.
Lessons and Bonds for a Lifetime
The love and respect the children have for each volunteer are so. I treasure every moment I spent with them that summer.
It was only due to this experience that I have resolved to do volunteer work throughout my life. When you can see the impact you have on the students and watch them grow as individuals, you realize that touching the lives of those around you is perhaps the most fulfilling experience there is.
I still work with kids, despite having moved to Pune. I have developed relationships with those at AXF that I know will last a lifetime. My time with AXF is still not complete. I am sure I will definitely re-join as a volunteer someday!
Advait Makhija is an undergraduate student at FLAME University who volunteered at the Santa Cruz and Juhu branches of AXF during the summer of 2017.
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