People & Places

I share my recap video of my time in Delhi, along with insights and reflections from my Leadership in Action summer experience
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Reflecting on my Leadership in Action with Sangath in Delhi, I am struck by how profoundly this experience has shaped my understanding of leadership, communication, and cultural competence. This journey through the vibrant heart of India not only broadened my professional horizons but also deeply enriched my personal growth, offering lessons that extend far beyond the confines of traditional learning.

Delhi's dynamic environment presented a striking contrast to my life in Toronto. The city's bustling streets, intense heat, and housing and transportation system initially overwhelmed me, testing my adaptability. Navigating these challenges required more than just physical endurance; it demanded a mental shift to embrace the city's unpredictability and find resilience in discomfort. This process underscored a fundamental aspect of leadership: the ability to remain composed and resourceful in the face of adversity. I learned that effective leadership involves managing both personal and professional uncertainties with flexibility and a positive outlook.

My work at Sangath, particularly on projects like Baatcheet and Metropolis, provided deep insights into the intersection of mental health interventions and cultural context. Baatcheet’s focus on peer support and Metropolis’s strategies for early intervention for depression illuminated the necessity of culturally tailored approaches. These projects collectively illustrated a key lesson: impactful leadership in global contexts involves a deep understanding of and respect for the cultural fabric within which interventions are deployed. Leadership is not merely about setting objectives or implementing plans; it requires a nuanced appreciation of the local context and an ability to adapt strategies accordingly. The success of Baatcheet and Metropolis depended on how well they were able to resonate with and be shaped by the cultural and socio-economic realities of the communities they aimed to serve.

This realization has significant implications for my future work in global settings. It is clear that achieving meaningful impact requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. It involves a commitment to understanding local contexts, engaging with community members to identify their needs and preferences, and designing interventions that are culturally and contextually appropriate. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the interventions but also builds trust and fosters collaboration with the communities served.

Effective communication emerged as a central theme throughout my internship. Working with a team composed of local and international members, I learned to navigate a spectrum of communication styles, from formal to informal. This was not merely about adapting my communication approach but about understanding the subtleties that drive interpersonal interactions across cultures. For instance, in focus groups and co-design workshops, recognizing and respecting local norms of respect and formality allowed me to build trust and facilitate more productive discussions. This experience underscored the importance of listening actively and adapting communication strategies to foster genuine understanding and collaboration.

Leadership in this context also required an enhanced ability to manage ambiguity and resource constraints. Delhi's infrastructural limitations and the dynamic nature of project work often necessitated rapid adjustments and creative problem-solving. Facing unexpected challenges, such as severe flooding, taught me that leadership is not about rigid adherence to plans but about being flexible and resourceful. This adaptability is crucial in managing both planned objectives and unforeseen obstacles, reinforcing the idea that resilience and innovation are key components of effective leadership.

Moreover, the cross-cultural collaboration at Sangath provided invaluable insights into the power of diverse perspectives. Engaging with colleagues from various international and local backgrounds revealed how different viewpoints can converge to shape more holistic and innovative solutions. The experience of working alongside researchers from institutions like OP Jindal University and King’s College London highlighted the benefits of integrating diverse expertise and approaches. It became apparent that fostering an environment where diverse ideas are valued and synthesized can lead to richer, more effective outcomes.

On a personal level, immersing myself in Delhi’s culture was deeply enriching. Exploring historical landmarks, participating in local festivals, and interacting with community members offered a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural factors that influence mental health practices. Each experience provided insights into how culture shapes perceptions and practices. This cultural immersion enhanced my appreciation for the global diversity of experiences and perspectives.

My time at Sangath has been transformative. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful projects and immerse myself in Delhi’s vibrant culture. The insights gained here will undoubtedly guide my future endeavors and enhance my approach to global challenges. A special thank you to Shraddha Prassad and Tyler Tom their steadfast support throughout my Laidlaw journey. I am also deeply appreciative of my supervisors, Dr. Pattie Gonsalves and Dhriti Mittal, for their guidance and for making my experience at Sangath both impactful and rewarding.

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