Strengthening Minds, Celebrating Inclusion – Aaina’s June Highlights
June 2025 was a month of learning, empathy, and celebration at Aaina. On 6–7 June, we hosted a transformative Training and Capacity Building workshop on mental health for our staff at the Centre for Youth and Social Development. Guided by experts Dr. Alok Jyoti Sahoo, Dr. Aditi Panda, Ms. Yency Rani Lugun, and Ms. Binita Eka, the two-day event deepened understanding of mental health, early intervention, and stigma reduction.
The sessions explored pressing issues — addiction, adolescent well-being, suicide prevention, stress management, and the mental health challenges faced by persons with disabilities. Through engaging discussions, film screenings like Mann ki Akhein, and practical tools such as Psychological First Aid’s “Look, Listen, Link” approach, participants learned how to respond to crises with empathy and skill. The workshop left our team more confident, compassionate, and committed to championing mental well-being in the communities we serve.
The month also saw festivity with a purpose as Aaina celebrated the vibrant Raja Festival in Khordha and Begunia blocks on 14 and 16 June. Over 320 adolescent girls, including those with disabilities, participated in Menstrual Health and Hygiene awareness activities. The celebrations wove together tradition and advocacy — from serving local delicacies like Poda Pitha to hosting inclusive games, Rangoli, Mehendi, and the much-anticipated crowning of the “Raja Queen.”
Community members actively contributed food, décor, and support, proving that cultural events can be powerful vehicles for social change. This joyful gathering not only spread awareness about menstrual hygiene but also built stronger community bonds and encouraged the inclusion of girls with disabilities.
Together, these initiatives reflect Aaina’s unwavering mission: to empower, include, and inspire — ensuring mental health and dignity for all.