By Constance Ferber
It has been two and a half weeks since we all have arrived in Bangalore, and what surprises me the most has not been the cows that stop traffic, the crowded markets, or the extensive array of smells in a five foot radius but rather discovering the hospitality among many of the Indian individuals that we have encountered. And I, further, believe that it is this hospitality that has allowed the GSE group to expand their networking base to an incredible amount in such a short period of time. Our days have been filled with dynamic and rewarding encounters. From Ashoka fellows to inspiring NGO founders to the author Lavanya Sankaran, these incredible opportunities and insightful meetings have all been arranged by gracious individuals who have gone out of their way to foster such an environment. As mentioned in Lauren’s blog, the networking among NGOs in Bangalore is truly unique and welcoming. As a result, GSE has been graciously assisted by such a network.
Within our specific organizations, we have been actively incorporated into their daily routines and not treated like outsiders. We are included in meetings with other founders of NGOs from around India and rather than be pushed aside and viewed as simple interns, we are asked to participate in activities that do not necessary pertain to us. Such involvement has allowed us to expand our knowledge of the NGO sector in India as well as giving us the opportunity to meet such highly qualified individuals.
The GSE Group and Lavanya Sankaran at the Jayamahal Palace Hotel
Furthermore Jairaj, a former College of Wooster graduate, has connected us to many inspirational people. From acquiring the email address of the author of White Mughals to arranging a meeting for the group with Lavanya Sankaran. Jairaj has shown us great hospitality. Lavanya Sankaran is the author of the Red Carpet, a book that we read for our GSE seminar in preparation for our stay in Bangalore. Hearing Lavanya speak about the drastic changes in Bangalore along with the current clash between modern and traditional was so genuine. She captured and articulated what many of us have observed but could not necessarily verbalize.
Our experiences with the CSIM group (Pani-Uncle, Meenaji, and Varsha) has also been rewarding. Although we may seem a little tired by the end of our sessions, they have connected us with some fascinating people from the SE world of India. They have gone well beyond their duties with CSIM and have arranged for Lauren to meet with Asif Muhammad, a man who was worked on a village project outside of Bangalore.
Highlights of the week
Marianne got HIGHLIGHTS (Get it?)
Going to see a Bollywood movie, Rajneeti without subtitles
Dream A Dream piloted their first focus group interview
No one got terribly sick this week
Chris attempted to play soccer but ended up knocking over little children
Bob Sinclair is coming to Bangalore on Sunday!!
