AIESEC*BESC: Youth speak forum 2024

The Bhawanipiur Education Society College opened its doors and welcomed AIESEC, a venerable youth-driven organisation renowned for fostering global leadership, and unfolded its vibrant array of ideas at the Youth Speak Forum “Manzel” 2024. This esteemed event which attracted a diverse assembly of over 70 participants commenced promptly at 11:00 A.M. in the Concept Hall, marking the culmination of meticulous planning and zealous commitment to community engagement. The stage, festooned with vibrant balloons and eco-friendly cardboard boxes adorned with poignant messages of sustainable development, set the tone for an intellectually stimulating day ahead.

To ignite the audience’s spirits, the event began with lively melodies played to culminate in an impromptu dance or “Jiving”, that fostered a sense of camaraderie among attendees. The event went on as participants were invited to introduce themselves spontaneously, sharing their motivations for joining the forum. With spirits lifted, the program formally opened with the national anthem. Nandika Kedia and Jagriti Agarwal, the organising committee Presidents of the YSK’24, delivered a dynamic keynote celebrating the diversity of ideas and the pathways to personal success. Emphasising effective communication and innovative thinking, they highlighted the forum’s central theme of ‘Sustainable Development’. Their address concluded with the phrase “Your Voice Matters” an empowering call to action that echoed through the hall.

A symbolic moment followed with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp with esteemed guests that included Prof. Dilip Shah, Rector and Dean of Students Affairs of BESC; Ms Aparajita Banerjee, CEO, Astrit Research and Advisory Services Pvt. Ltd; Ms Varnika Pasari, Founder, of Tic Tactic; and Mr. Sagar Daryani, co-founder of Wow!Momo. In his brief address, Prof. Shah underscored the forum’s intent to imbue attendees with wisdom and perspective from the day’s discussions. To begin with the discourse, the first speaker Mr. Sagar Daryani recounted the inception of Wow! Momo and its evolution into Bengal’s esteemed brand. Highlighting resilience amid challenges, he championed sustainable business practices and inclusive growth. In his conclusion, he gave the audience a mantra of “RUN, WALK, CRAWL; but don’t stop! Instead face your challenges with a smile” encapsulating the spirit of perseverance and positivity. Next in the line was a dynamic panel discussion featuring eminent figures such as Ms Aparajita Banerjee, Ms Varnika Pasari, Mr Mitul Sheth, Exchange Participant of AIESEC and Mr Arman Jaiswal, Director of Corporate Relations, Resolute Infrastructure & The Pahadi Maa-ki-Ting. Following their felicitation by Sloke Jaiswal, Local Committee President of AIESEC, the forum progressed with the panel deliberating on the evolution of technology since the 1990s, exploring its dual impact on societal dynamics and personal well-being.

The session continued with an enlightening workshop on Adult Learning, facilitated by Mr. Ayan Pal, an IBM Consultant and acclaimed author, renowned for his insights into personal and professional development. Participants engaged actively in understanding diverse learning styles and work preferences, gaining practical insights into effective collaboration and conflict resolution.

After a brief respite for lunch, the forum reconvened with a second panel comprising industry experts including Mr. Paul Neary, Director of Paul Neary Academy and Ex-Coach of Manchester United; Mr Nirvik Mukherjee, Head of Sports NSHM Knowledge Campus; Prof. Dilip Shah; Ms Anuradha Jalan, Founder of GreenCove; Ms Mehal Jalan, Founder of Marketing Binge; Ms Rohini Das, Founder & Director of Amuzi; and Moderator Mr Jimmy Tangree, Head of 91.9 Friends FM Radio. With the title “What got you here won’t get you there”, the speakers presented guided discussions on career progression and personal growth strategies. Emphasising the need for adaptability and continuous learning, they articulated strategies for navigating the complexities of modern professional landscapes.

The event ended with a poignant reminder from Mr Tangree and Prof. Shah on the paramount importance of personal well-being and holistic development. Before vacating the hall, certificates were handed over to all participants and volunteers as a token of acknowledgment for their active engagement and contributions to the forum’s success and for drawing the curtains on a day marked with profound insights and spirited exchanges.

Reporter – Ankita Mukherjee
Photographer – Priyanshu Chatterjee, Sanika Shaw