Mysuru student in Italy for youth boot camp aimed at fostering involvement in democracy

Dhanalakshmi S. Gowda, a student at JSS Academy of Higher Education in Mysuru pursuing a master's degree in public health, will take part in an international youth exchange program and boot camp on "Inclusive and Sustainable Cities" in Italy from September 3 to September 9. 'Youth for Governance' (Y4G) Fellow Dhanalakshmi represents GRAAM (Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement. sia) and HSF’s (Hanns Seidel Foundation), organizes ‘Youth for Governance’ (Y4G), a year-long fellowship program, to address the limited engagement of India’s youth in democracy.

The Y4G fellowship program for empowering young leaders aims to unlock the potential of dynamic individuals as agents of change. Through this program, GRAAM seeks to enhance youth participation in democratic processes, fostering active citizenship and social responsibility and, ultimately, strengthening democratic institutions. This year, Dhanalakshmi has been recommended by GRAAM to represent India on the global stage in Italy. The second edition of the Youth Boot Camp for Inclusive and Sustainable Cities is a unique platform designed to equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to be champions in combating discrimination within their communities. The intensive five-day boot camp will feature expert speakers and policymakers delivering thematic lectures.

Participants from across the globe will engage in dynamic and action-oriented dialogues to deconstruct racism and discrimination, fostering a more inclusive world. The agenda at the boot camp includes immersive and interactive workshops and training sessions, enabling young leaders to drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Dr. Basavaraju R. Shreshta, India coordinator of G20 C20 Delivering Democracy Working Group and Executive Director of GRAAM, said, “GRAAM aims to empower youth, nurture their leadership potential, and create a more inclusive and participatory democracy in India.”