Warm greetings to everyone. Sawadee ka. My name is Vivehaa. I’m 18 years old, and I am from India. I have been a volunteer at Shanti Ashram for the past seven to eight years, and I can proudly say that I am a representative of India GNRC Youth. I am also an ambassador of India Poverty Solution and the Food Bank Initiative. During this COVID pandemic, I was a major [child] contributor to the Food Bank Initiative to help people who are in need.
As I am from the Hindu community, I would like to share briefly what Hinduism is about. It teaches us respect for all forms of life, and that there are many paths to reach the same truth. This value helped me naturally respect other religions too.
At Shanti Ashram, we conduct a beautiful and meaningful initiative called Journey for Unity. Every year, we take students from different schools to places of worship: a Hindu temple, a church, a mosque [and Sikh temples]. The purpose of this journey is to teach every child about unity in diversity, that we are all one.
Through this journey, I had the privilege of meeting not only religious leaders from my own community, but from other communities too. What made me feel secure and safe when I am with religious leaders is, firstly, their hospitality. Whenever we visit their sacred places, they welcome us warmly without questioning our background. We are treated as human beings first.
Secondly, it is their approach. They speak with kindness and patience. They explain the core values of their religion: love, compassion, peace, service, and humanity. Even though the rituals may differ in each community, the message remains the same.
Thirdly, it is the feeling of equality. No one makes us feel different, and every community treats us as though we are among them. No one creates barriers. This acceptance gave me a deep sense of security.
When I am with religious leaders, I feel safe. I see humility, wisdom, and responsibility. Their calm presence makes me feel emotionally and spiritually protected.
This Journey for Unity has taught me that understanding removes fear, and dialogue builds trust. When we truly understand each other, we realize we are one human family.
Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Mustafa Ali and my best friend Opor for giving me such an opportunity.
Thank you so much to Shanti Ashram, GNRC India and my colleagues.
