SHILLONG, Jan 27: Designed to help children and adolescents discover their inner strengths and align with their personal aspirations, the inaugural workshops of social enterprise AVENUES successfully concluded at its new APEX Academy on Saturday, following two training sessions that commenced on December 11, 2024, and January 6, 2025, respectively.
A total of 82 children and teens, aged 5 to 16, participated in the 15-day workshops held during the winter holidays. This programme marked the 22nd edition of AVENUES’ annual winter workshops, which have been conducted since 2003.
Facilitated by trainers and coaches with a combined experience of over 75 years, the sessions aimed to create nurturing spaces for participants to build essential life outcomes such as confidence, curiosity, and emotional well-being. Through a thematic curriculum, the participants explored their identities and aspirations, fostering self-awareness and a sense of purpose.
The workshops aimed to provide children with a season of self-reflection, discovery, and insight, empowering them to shape their future and develop the skills needed to achieve their dreams.
Jirevah M Swer, 13, shared his experience, saying, “I’ve been coming to AVENUES since I was 6 years old. I remember crying during my first session, but now I eagerly look forward to returning each time.”
Reflecting on his favourite session, he added, “We explored different personas, and my favorite was the Money Manager. It taught me to manage my pocket money better and be mindful of my expenses. Each time I come here, I learn something new that I know will help me later in life. I’ve also made new friends and feel encouraged by my trainers.”
Seven-year-old Tori Kyrpang Lyngdoh also shared his experience: “On the first day, we went trekking, which was so exciting! Later, we created bookmarks and art projects using materials we collected during the trek. Over the next few days, we explored and enacted different personas like the Scientist, Teacher, and Leader. These sessions transformed me from being quiet to more outspoken.”
Parents, too, voiced their appreciation. Anthony Khongsit, a police officer and parent, remarked, “These workshops have convinced me that AVENUES is the best place for children to develop holistically. Life is about more than just marks and scores. I’ve noticed a positive change in my child since she reduced her screen time and started enjoying her time here. As a parent, I am very happy with her growth in such a short span.”
Aligned with the tenets of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises nurturing 21st-century skills, the AVENUES framework focusses on foundational skill sets that complement the technical knowledge gained in formal education. These skills are designed to prepare young learners for the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and digital advancements.
The APEX Academy offers courses under its Human Skills for the Future programme, which includes workshops during the summer and winter holidays, as well as campus interventions in schools and colleges across the region.
