A Journey from Student to Environmental and Social Change Leader
Name: Animesh Mondal
Age: 15 Years
Village: Battali, South 24 Pargana
Role: Youth Leader
Animesh Mondal, a 14-year-old student of Class VIII at Botaltoli Bangabharati Vidyalaya, began his engagement with our program in August 2024. Initially, his thinking and participation were quite limited, but over time, a remarkable transformation was observed in his attitude, awareness, and leadership abilities.
When we started working in the school, the campus environment was often unclean and poorly managed. Inspired by the Gender and Climate Change sessions conducted in April–May 2025, Animesh took a proactive initiative to address this issue. He gathered fellow students and led a school cleanliness drive. He also ensured the introduction of separate dustbins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste in each classroom.
Beyond cleanliness activities, Animesh actively took responsibility in organizing important school events such as Environment Day, Water Day, and Gender Fair. His leadership skills became increasingly visible as he successfully coordinated students and managed event activities.
His awareness extended beyond the school into his home and community. He introduced waste segregation practices at home and encouraged his parents to avoid cutting trees and to plant more greenery. Breaking traditional gender roles, Animesh also began helping his mother with household work such as cooking support, fetching water, and washing utensils.
A defining moment in his journey came during child marriage prevention sessions. After learning about child rights and the Childline helpline (1098), Animesh became more alert and responsible. On one occasion, when he and his friends learned about two underage girls being forced into marriage in their community, they immediately informed their teacher, Ms. Sreerupa Chatterjee, and took support from Childline to intervene. Their timely action demonstrated strong awareness and courage among adolescents in protecting children’s rights.
Today, Animesh is seen as a role model among his peers. He has become a proactive young leader advocating for gender equality, environmental protection, and child rights. His journey shows how a young boy can transform into a responsible change-maker when given the right guidance and opportunities.
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