A Passionate Force for Good: Atharva Nigade’s Inspiring Journey of Volunteering with Bhumi

Atharva's belief in the transformative power of education fuels his desire to contribute more to society. He stresses that education is not merely about learning concepts and taking exams but also about applying those values in real life.

From the bustling city of Pune, amidst the rigors of engineering studies and the pursuit of dreams, a young volunteer named Atharva Nigade stands out as the torch-bearer of hope and kindness. His journey with Bhumi began not just as a pursuit of passion but as a call to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children. Recognized for his relentless dedication and selfless work, Atharva has recently been nominated for the prestigious iVolunteer Awards 2024 - an honor well-deserved.

The Beginning of a Journey

Atharva’s inspiration came from close to home. In 2021, one of his friends’ elder sisters, who was a part of Bhumi, became the catalyst for his decision to join. “I was really inspired by her work for society, and I wanted to do the same to help kids and give them the opportunity to study.”, Atharva recalls. This motivation to do good and uplift society drove him to join Bhumi during a period when many might have hesitated due to the ongoing pandemic.

Though Atharva initially planned to join Bhumi in 2019, the pandemic delayed his plans. However, once he learned about Bhumi’s online volunteering opportunities, he immediately applied and completed his orientation in October 2021. With resilience and adaptability, Atharva quickly found his footing in teaching children online showcasing his unwavering commitment.

Teaching, Leading, and Growing

Atharva’s journey with Bhumi flourished as he transitioned from online to offline centers. His passion for teaching and connecting with children led him to take on the role of an LB Coordinator for Bhumi’s Little Einstein - Maths Project, a role where he found his purpose, enhancing children’s education through math, while also ensuring that learning remains engaging and impactful.

Apart from his core responsibilities, Atharva has also been a pivotal part of various initiatives at Bhumi, including the well-known Ignite Fest. Last year, he led the Volunteer Management team, ensuring smooth operations and making the experience enriching for both children and volunteers. This year, his responsibilities expanded as he took charge of the overall operations for Ignite Fest, highlighting his growth as a leader and an individual.

The Heart-warming Impact

Atharva’s work has left a deep mark on the children he teaches. One of the most heart-warming moments of his journey occurred when he resumed teaching at an offline center after a break. Upon his return, the children were so excited to see him that they rushed toward him, pulling him in all directions out of sheer joy. Atharva recalls this moment fondly, stating, “That was the best memory I had in Bhumi - the impact I have created on the kids is really a wonderful thing.”

For Atharva, these small yet powerful moments are a reminder of the difference he’s making. His belief in the transformative power of education fuels his desire to contribute more to society. He stresses that education is not merely about learning concepts and taking exams but also about applying those values in real life. “One must be able to implement key values in their life, and I want to help children achieve that.”, he shares.

A Balancing Act of Passion and Ambition

Aside from his volunteering commitments, Atharva is a third-year Computer Science student at MIT ADT University, Pune, with aspirations to pursue a master’s degree in the future. Juggling academics and volunteering isn’t an easy feat, but for Atharva, it’s a labor of love. His passion extends beyond education; he is also an avid sports enthusiast, having represented Maharashtra at the state level in athletics and football.

Atharva’s dedication to volunteering is fueled by a simple yet profound philosophy: “You can’t change the world at once, but one child at a time can definitely lead to a great change.” This mindset not only keeps him grounded but also inspires those around him to strive for a better world.

Recognizing a True Force for Good

Atharva’s relentless efforts and dedication to making a positive impact have not gone unnoticed. He embodies the spirit of giving back to the community, and his journey is a reminder that passion, kindness, and a commitment to doing good can drive remarkable change.

As we rally behind Atharva and his noble cause, let’s show our support for a young leader who exemplifies the essence of volunteerism. Vote for Atharva Nigade at the iVolunteer Awards 2024 and help amplify the impact of a true force for good!

Vote here: hi.switchy.io/iVolunteerAtharvaNigade to recognize and celebrate Atharva’s inspiring journey!