26 Feb 2025 3 min read

Discovering the other 'Me'

An engineer-turned-journalist with a passion for social impact. My career began as a journalist. This is a small read on my professional journey

Working with passion, surfing through challenge waves is what makes this grin a wider one

My career began as a journalist, covered Puttingal fi re tragedy, Triple Talaq, etc.. Transitioning to the development sector, I led skill development initiatives, managed public policy programs, and spearheaded impactful campaigns. From engaging with students to shaping narratives through documentation and PR, each experience honed my leadership skills. Now, I focus on addressing techno-social challenges that transcend borders. The common thread in my journey has been creating meaningful change—whether through storytelling, policy advocacy, or grassroots initiatives. Purpose-driven work continues to excite and inspire me.

I am a self-motivated, highly aspiring woman who daydreams of becoming an influential leader - someone who can bring some sort of positive change in people's life, directly or indirectly, through my profession. I am an engineer turned journalist who has led and handled multiple social impact projects. Throughout my career, I have encountered many hurdles, dilemmas and step-downs still I strived and managed to build a strong portfolio for myself in the capacities that I worked.

Now, realising that my inclination towards the social sector dates back to my school days when I aspired to become a Journalist or a lawyer, I was completely oblivious to the development sector or the concept of NGO. Years later, after graduating B.Tech, I decided to pursue my passion 'Journalism'. I had a clear line of career map in mind.. Do interesting stories, pursue development journalism try to affi liate with UNDP or similar bodies relevant to national/international scenarios.

My first career high was covering a story on Triple Talaq, marching past the National Commission for Women, and speaking with multiple leaders to understand their perspectives. Instead of politicising, I spoke out against injustice, giving voice to the many abandoned wives within the community. This excitement and honour was short-lived. Months later, my silver lining came in the form of ASAP, A GoK project on Skill development where I joined as Programme Manager.

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Dynamite NewsDN Bureau

There, I got to engage with higher secondary school kids, helped to navigate them to a course of their interests and skill sets, and spearheaded skilling initiatives in the Irinjalakuda assembly constituency. This engagement brought out the leadership skills in me, having to manage diverse and multiple stakeholders, I was able to fi nd the perfect balance in my career. As days and months progressed, I was promoted to the Documentation Division - where my job was aligned with my journalistic background. After materialising two annual reports and 28 newsletters, and startegising PR eff orts for three major events, I leapt to the next avenue - 'Centre for Public Policy'. Involved in curating courses on public policy, encouraged young minds to indulge in policy discussions rather than divisive political discussions.

America With Kerala - My best ever project

Yes, projects that have the potential to bring some degree of positive outcomes in society always excite me and are quite satisfying.

In this chapter of my career, I strive to do my part in addressing techno-social challenges—issues that impact the digital generation, transcending geographical boundaries and demographics.

What is the exciting thing about working in the social sector?

The most exciting thing about working in the social sector is that you get a sense of purpose. Knowingly or unknowingly your small efforts make some positive impact on a person's life.