Stories of Change

Real Stories, Real Impact, Real Smiles

From Silence to Strength: Krishna’s Journey

Name: Krishna Sarkar

Age: 19 Years

Village: Mahanandapally, Malda

Role: Youth Facilitator

Krishna Sarkar joined Praajak in 2019 as a shy and reserved adolescent. Like many young people, he carried difficult childhood experiences that he had never spoken about. At the time, he neither understood what had happened nor felt confident enough to seek support. For years, he remained silent.

His journey began to change through Praajak’s learning circles, Kabaddi sessions, and discussions on gender equality, child rights, personal safety, and protection from abuse. These sessions helped him understand that every child—whether a boy or a girl—has the right to live with dignity, safety, and respect.

As his awareness grew, Krishna recognised that the harm he had experienced in childhood was not his fault. More importantly, he realised that remaining silent was not the only option. Supported by trusted adults and encouraged by his peers, he found the confidence to speak up. Together with other boys in his group, he challenged the unsafe behaviour and ensured that it came to an end. That moment became a turning point in his life, transforming fear into courage.

Today, Krishna is a confident youth leader and Praajak Fellow. He facilitates discussions with adolescents on gender equality, child protection, respectful relationships, and creating safe spaces for children. He currently mentors two girls’ groups and one boys’ group, believing that boys and girls learn best when they grow together with mutual respect and equal opportunities.

A passionate Kabaddi mentor, Krishna actively encourages girls’ participation in sports and promotes teamwork that challenges harmful gender stereotypes. Alongside his community work, he is pursuing his college education while continuing to strengthen his leadership skills.

Krishna dreams of a society where every child feels safe, every young person knows their rights, and boys and girls stand together as equal partners in building stronger communities.

His journey reminds us that when children are provided with knowledge, supportive relationships, and safe spaces to grow, they can overcome adversity, discover their voice, and become leaders who inspire positive change in the lives of others.

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