GAHN Workshop Singapore - a report

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD GLOBAL AWARD HOLDERS NETWORK [GAHN] WORKSHOP, SINGAPORE

On the 16^th of August the delegates arrived at the National Community Leadership Institute [NACLI] in the evening and to begin with we went out for a nature work around Kent Ridge Park, which was an amazing experience, this gave us time to get to know each other.

Day 1: 17^th September 2012, the day began with a warm welcome by Prof Leo Tan, Chairman, National Youth Achievement Award Council [NYAA], followed by an introduction and overview by Jenny Jacob who represented the International Secretariat.

We had the opportunity to visit the residence of the British High Commissioner, His Excellency Antony Phillipson. A lavish afternoon tea spread along with his very kind and supportive words marked the beginning of the day’s activities. 

The main topic taken up that afternoon was ‘Beyond Gold- How to remain engaged in the Award.” This discussion became even more interesting as we were joint by NYAA gold Award holders and current participants putting forward their practices and challenges as well. We managed to have a detailed discussion, which was very well summed up by Major General Chan Chun Sing, Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports and Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Defence.  His very inspiring words helped us consolidate all the ideas brought out by the various groups during this session.

A chance to witness a Meet-the-people-session conducted by Members of Parliament on a weekly basis to hear the grievances of the public and support them with all possible aid was the perfect way to end the day. 

Day 2: 18^th August 2012, we started the day with a keynote address on ‘Servant Leadership” by Dr. Tan Chi Chiu, Member NYAA Council. 

Followed by which we were split into five groups in order to discuss the five main issues:

• International Award Network and Opportunities
• How to set up an Alumni/Award Holder Association 
• Life after Gold-Engagement
• Life after Gold- Advocacy
• Life after Gold- Events 

All the groups began working and were given the next few hours to prepare presentations to put forward all challenges and potential solutions revolving around our respective topics. Rest of the day was marked by a couple of brainstorming sessions and preparations for next morning.

Evening visit to Singapore’s newest attraction Gardens by the Bay, which is a park, spanning 101 hectares (250 acres) of reclaimed land in central Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. The park consists of three waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay Central Garden.

Gardens by the Bay is an integral part of a strategy by the Singapore government to transform Singapore from a "Garden City" to a "City in a Garden". The stated aim is to raise the quality of life by enhancing greenery and flora in the city.

Day 3: 19^th August 2012, the day began with all the groups presenting and an interactive question and answer session. 

Devanjali formed part of the group that tackled “Life after Gold-Advocacy” and presented the issue in the form of a role-play taking various situations where Advocacy plays a major role. 

The stage now set for building a network for alumni bodies from all over the world. Thank you Singapore NYAA and the IAA for making this possible!

- Report filed by Rohit Saxena and Devanjali Dutt the delegates from India

For any feedback or questions welcome to email devanjali@dofe.in or rohit@dofe.in

Team India all set for GAHN Singapore

To,

The NYAA Singapore
APAC Region and the IAA 

Dear James and all the key allies for the GAHN Workshop,

Much appreciation to the NYAA of Singapore, the APAC Region and the IAA for hosting the GAHN Singapore Workshop in the coming week.

Happy to share our Alumni website and all the resources for the forthcoming GAHN workshop.

Website: http://www.gahs.in/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gahsindia
Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tgahs

We are sending two of our finest young leaders Rohit Saxena and Devanjali Dutt for the GAHN Workshop and are certain they will add value to your efforts to help develop the GAHN Network. The delegates have many of the resources and formats in soft copy and have access to our data online too. They have both worked hard for the last few months and contributed a great deal to the GAHS and IAYP in India. Further most of the delegates attending the GAHN Network are on our social network and have followed us closely too. All this would not have been possible without the active support of the IAA and the IAYP India management, and for this we are most grateful to them.

Wish you all the best,

Sandeep Dutt
For and behalf of THE GAHS Executive Team

The Gold Award Holders Society (GAHS)

www.gahs.in

The Gold Award Holders Society has been established to support and further the objectives of the The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in India.

1

The historic GAHN Summit set the stage for GAHS

International Spiti Gold Solar Project 2013

After two successful years, The Gold Award Holders Society (GAHS) is happy to announce the Spiti Gold Solar Project 2013. We only accept limited numbers, and are happy to assist young people from all over the world. Gold Award Holders are most welcome and work with the Indian alumni; Gold participants will be able to complete the Residential Project and the Adventurous Journey.

Look forward to building the event of major significance and have the international community work with us for our YES (Youth Engaging Society) Projects. The office of GAHS India is  at New Delhi and the President of GAHS is the spirit behind Ecosphere (the partners for the Spiti Gold Solar Project 2013).

Welcome to write to us on sd@ebd.in for any further information.

The Indian Himalaya in Himachal Pradesh.
June 2013

Duration: 18 days
Route: Delhi - Manali – Spiti – Manali – Delhi
Maximum Altitude: 5000 mts.
Key features:  Volunteering on projects mitigating the impacts of climate change, Homestays, weekend excursions

During this journey you will be assisting the local community in construction of a solar bath. The volunteers will participate in the actual construction of the solar bath and the set up of a solar water geyser (Evacuated Tube Condenser) and will be assisted by a dedicated team of a qualified mason and representative from Ecosphere. The activity will entail physical work. The construction period will be 7 to 8 days. The trip is intermixed with work and pleasure. During this trip you will also be visiting some of the highest villages in the world, going on a high-altitude trek, visiting some ancient monasteries dating back to over a 1000 years and take a yak safari and mountain bike if interested. Traditional homestays further enrich the experience by giving one an authentic understanding of the life and culture in a Spitian home.

Significance of this Tour
The construction of a solar bath is of great significance in this region as great amounts of fuelwood, coal and wood is burnt for heating water which contributes to CO2 and black carbon emissions. The latter having far more damaging affects on the melting of glaciers and snow on a local level. Through the set up of a solar bath which includes both a passive solar structure as well as a solar water heating system, we enable the people to cut down on emissions (especially reducing black carbon) as well as enable them to have better hygiene through regular availability of hot water. 

Costs and more...
This is conducted in association with Ecosphere and EBD Educational Pvt Ltd, the cost for Indian Nationals is Rs. 36.000.00 thousand (from Delhi to Delhi). Foreign Nationals pay $ 750.00 (form Delhi to Delhi)

Costs including taxes for a group of 15 persons
-  All accommodation starting Day 2 to Day 15
-  Meals starting Day 4 dinner to Day 14 dinner
-  All bus/ jeep transfers Day 1 (with bus to Manali) to Day 15 (bus to Delhi)
-  Project support
-  Support staff on days required
Excludes: 
Mineral water and beverages (other than those provided), Monastery Fees, Tips, Insurance  and expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances 

Please Note:-
a) This is a carbon neutral trip. It is Ecosphere’s endeavour to generate minimum emissions on this journey and whatever emissions that we do generate are calculated and offset through investments in our in-house renewable energy projects within the region. These include construction of passive solar houses, green houses and investing in other sustainable renewable energy alternatives such as solar water heating systems, solar cookers, solar lighting, etc. 
b) A different kind of holiday - Ecosphere is a social enterprise and your travel with Ecosphere will contribute to the development and conservation of the region. Insights into the local development and conservation issues and a peep into Ecosphere’s initiatives 

Sign up Form online
You may want to simply fill the From shown below and or email us if you have trouble accessing the Form. Please email us at sd@ebd.in for early bird discount and more help.

PLEASE WAIT A FEW SECONDS THE FORM WILL BE HERE ASAP!

The Spiti Diary 2012

Spiti Report

9^th June 2012 to 12^th June 2012

The 15 day Gold Solar Project took off with an overnight journey to Shimla. All the participants were randomly divided into two groups to increase interaction among them and boarded two separate buses for Shimla. After reaching Shimla early in the morning the next day, we immediately took off for Kalpa in 3 separate taxis. Kalpa was our introduction to snow capped mountains. After an overnight stay in Kalpa, we left for Kaza, a part of the Spiti Valley the next day where we had an overnight stay as well. The next day we left for the Key monastery. After reaching the monastery in the later part of the day, we were given an informal orientation. Thus, after 3 days of travelling, we settled into our accommodation for the next 2 weeks. 

13^th June 2012 to 16^th June 2012

We started with our first day of work. The participants were divided into groups and each group was given a separate task everyday. The tasks basically included farma work, mud work, path work, tank work and tractor duties. The groups were so formed that participants from different institutions were clubbed together in a group to enhance inter-regional interaction.

17^th June 2012 to 20^th June 2012

We left for our 4 day trek early in the morning on the 17^th of June 2012. The first day was an 8km uphill trek to a village called Komik. It was indeed a difficult task for the participants as they weren’t acclimatised to high altitudes. After an overnight stay in Komik, we left for Demul the next day. This was a 12km uphill as well as downhill trek and we reached Demul late in the evening. The next day, we trekked upto the highest point called Bhalari. Later in the day, the villagers had organised a cultural event for all the participants. After staying overnight, we left for Lalung, a downward trek and visited the sarkang temple also.

We later left for the Key monastery.

21^st June 2012 and 22^nd June 2012

These were the last two days of our stay at the monastery. Much of the work being completed, we were left with only the plastering and painting and setting of the solar panel. This, according to the participants, was the fun part of the work. 

The completed Solar Bath was inaugurated by the King of the Spiti Valley in a ceremony held at the monastery. Later, the participants performed various skits and songs as a part of the “closing ceremony”. 

23^rd June 2012 to 25^th June 2012

The next day we left for Manali early in the morning. But, unfortunately, we got stuck due to a landslide and had to spend the night at a dhaba. The next day we crossed the landslide hit area on foot and went to the nearest bus stop sitting in the back of a truck. After the roads opened, we left for Rohtang Pass in our respective taxis but got stuck in traffic, again. We reached Manali in the evening on 24^th June and left for Delhi immediately. 

Spiti Gold Solar Project 2012

The 15 day Gold Solar project took off on 9th June 2012 from Shimla. The groups were randomly divided into two groups to increase interaction among them. After 3 days of travelling the participants settled into the Keyh monastery for the next 2 weeks.  On 13th June 2012 the participants started the first day of work. They were divided into groups and each group was given a separate task everyday which included farma work, mud work, path work, tank work and tractor duties. The groups were so formed that participants from different institutions were clubbed together in a group to enhance inter-regional interaction. On 17th the teams left for a 4 day trek early in the morning. The first day was an 8km uphill trek to a village called Komik. It was indeed a difficult task for the participants as it took some time to acclimatise to high altitude. After an overnight stay in Komik, the teams left for Demul the next day. This was a 12km uphill as well as downhill trek and they reached Demul late in the evening. The next day, participants trekked upto the highest point called Bhalari. Later in the day, the villagers had organised a cultural event for all the participants. After staying overnight, teams left for Lalung, a downward trek and visited the Sarkang temple also. Later they left for the Key monastery. The last two days during the stay at the monastery the teams did the plastering and painting and setting of the solar panel. This, according to the participants, was the fun part of the work. The completed Solar Bath was inaugurated by the King of the Spiti Valley in a ceremony held at the monastery. Later, the participants performed various skits and songs as a part of the “closing ceremony”. As reported by Surabhi Vaidya - volunteer and intern at IAYP

Third AGM of The Gold Award Holders Society 2012

Present: GAHS Executive Committee Treasurer - Sandeep Dutt and 64 members

Observers: Programme Manager- Mr. Bivujit Mukhoty

Communications Manager/GAHS Executive Summary- Ms. Nivedita Samanta

Office Manager- Mr. Chittaranjan Das

Parents of some GAHS members

Special Invitees: Mr. Ajeet Bajaj- Gold Holder and Adventurer 

Agenda

1. About GAHS and 50 years of The International Award in India
2. Approval of the Minutes of the last meeting held on 16^th May 2011 at Lok Kala Manch, New Delhi
3. Reappointment of the auditor and approval of audited statement
4. Any adoption or amendments of Rules and Regulations of the Society, if necessary
5. Any other matters- Introduction of Special Invitee and his address to the GAHS members about the importance of Gold Holders to be role models as committed citizens

Minutes

1. Meeting was called to order at 1635 hours by Nivedita Samanta on behalf of GAHS President-Ishita Khanna. She proceeded to talk about the importance of GAHS, its inception to address opportunities for Gold Holders post their Gold Awards. The Gold Award Holders’ Society registered on March 8, 2010 is the premier Alumni network for Gold Holders in India. With the motto of Cherishing Service and Relationship (CSR), GAHS is an effort to create more awareness about the Award in our country and to rope in exuberant Award Holders, who feel for the Award and are keen to give back, GAHS exists for the provision, promotion and preservation of the International Award in India. GAHS will function as a completely independent set-up to assist in alumni relations and growth of the Award Programme as per the Strategic Plan of the National Office.

The GAHS has had a successful year in 2011-12 where members have represented the country at the International Gold Event in Kenya, in Israel Youth Conference and at key training and orientation events in India. 

2. Nivedita proceeeded to read the minutes the last meeting held on 16^th May 2011 at Lok Kala Manch, New Delhi. Anwesha Ghosh proposed approval of the minutes and was seconded by Ajeet Bajaj. 

3. Sunil Trehan, Sunil Trehan & Co. Was approved and re-appointed as auditor for GAHS by GAHS members Dinesh Gajendran and Juzer Shaikhally. Audited statements read where the income for the GAH is only through membership fees and training expenses of members is the primary expense. 

4. Members are free to apply as ad-hoc Executive Committee members by sending in a formal request with their resumes to Nivedita@dofe.in The Applications received so far are:

• Anwesha Ghosh
• Dinesh Gajendran
• Ankit Durga
• Shreya Ghosh
• Shubhankar Chaudhary
• Devanjali Dutt
• Shubhda Hirawat

In addition, Communications Manager Nivedita Samanta who has been acting as Honorary GAHS Executive Secretary would like to move on from her term and proposed current India Rep. and GAHS Member Rajarshi Banerjee as the Nominee for the post.


5.  Any other matters:

1. Calendar of Events available on website www.iayp.in, GAHS Members welcome to attend any event of their choice
2. Mr. Ajeet Bajaj was introduced as Guest Speaker for the evening. His biography is attached as an appendix to these minutes. (present in the Blog archives)

The meeting concluded with a round of applause for everyone. These minutes were made to the best of Nivedita Samanta’s knowledge and documented by Shubhda Hirawat.

ASOP Gold Participants Workshop, 26 to 29 Dec 2011

A four-day ASOP (Australian Sports Outreach Program) Gold Participants training workshop was organized at Tikkling Camp, Gurgaon. 25 participants from Magic Bus, NAZ Foundation, and Rashtriya Life Saving Society attended. The objective of the workshop was to train these Gold participants and to acquaint them with the Award Philosophy.

Day one was dedicated to the orientation of the Gold Award participants, acclimatization with the beautiful surrounding of the Tikkling camp, ice-breaking session and the camp craft. A session on the use of First Aid at the time of crisis by Ujjwal of RLSS was the big highlight for the day. Participants also pitched their tents themselves and were taught camp craft. Bivujit Mukhoty the Programme Manager of IAYP and a team from ICNL helped set up the camp.

On the 27^th of December the Award Journey and Award Philosophy sessions conducted by Ms Raina Krishnatrey and Ms Pratibha K Singh. The morning session began by brain storming session and asking participants about the Award programme. With the help of various activities, stories, chart activities, fun games all the sessions were conducted. All four sections of the award Programme: Skills, Service, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey were explained thoroughly by providing appropriate examples and giving relevant details. Participants showed their inquisitiveness by asking questions at the end of each session. Participant gave their feedback regarding the language use, as some of them were not very comfortable with the English language. The trainers kept the feedback in mind and tried to use English and Hindi in proper proportion so as to make every participant comfortable and Award Journey understandable. Participants showed their enthusiasm not only in listening to the trainers but also in the tasks assigned to them. Some of the participants made very creative record entries which impressed the Trainers.

The sessions of day two would have been impossible without the support of Volunteers from Ansal Institute of Technology: Nivedita Parashar, Sonal Muskeen, Avi and Aviral who came all the way to enjoy and learn more about the Award Programme conducted by NAA (IAYP).

On the third day the participants with the trainers and volunteers were taken to the Aravalli Hills for the river crossing activity. This was again a great fun and enriching experience for all.

The main aim of the ASOP Project is to use sport for development and provide  sustainable livelihoods to Community Sport Volunteers (CSVs). The Award Programme Foundation and their Skills partner B-able are developing a curriculum to help the CSVs learn skills for life and provide vocational training. To develop the programme Sumiran & Sugandh of B-able conducted a half-day workshop, to showcase the Skills opportunity and work out ways to offer skills training to the Gold Award participants.

The Workshop was first of  it’s kind and helps build the delivery of the Award Programme in partner organisations, and help adult volunteers understand the needs of young people.

- report contributed by Bivujit, Pratibha and Raina.

Lead the Gold Holders

Your GOLD chance!

We would like to have a Gold Award holder, work as the Executive Secretary of the Gold Award Holder’s Society. Age 23 – 30 years, previous experience not really necessary, as we believe in ‘dream it, build it!’

Location will be the IAYP India Office in Delhi, and will report to the Communications Manager.

Connect and build a network of 1000 Gold Holders in India by 2013, and make the Society sustainable.

Events, Exchanges, International connections, work with leading businesses and be a leader of the pack.

Your ability to lead and manage a network of Volunteers and potential Gold Holders will help you shine as our young achiever.

Connect with nivedita@dofe.in today, as the offer closes before September sets in .

Sandeep
---

Sandeep Dutt
National Director, The International Award for Young People
Award Programme Foundation
86 Shahpur Jat, Khel Gaon Marg, New Delhi 110049, India
Phone: +91 11 2649 7154, Fax: +91 11 2649 7165, Website: iayp.in
Registered Charity No. TR/27951
www.iayp.in

IAYP India team

Represent India at the International Youth Conference "Take the Leadership" this November 2011 in Jerusalem, Israel

The Youth and Society Administration at the Ministry of Education of the State of Israel is pleased to invite you to participate in the forthcoming International Youth Conference "Take the Leadership" to be held on 20-23 November 2011 in Jerusalem, Israel, as part of the 2011 UNESCO International Year of Youth.

The theme of the conference is based on Janusz Korczak's quote: "Children are not the people of tomorrow, but people today. They are entitled to be taken seriously. They have a right to be treated by adults with tenderness and respect, as equals. They should be allowed to grow into whoever they were meant to be - The unknown person inside each of them is the hope for the future."

We would be pleased to host a delegation of 3-4 persons aged 17-22, representing your country in the conference. Every delegation should be accompanied by an adult.

The focus of the conference will be on: promoting youth leadership and volunteer activities;

establishing of the platform for dialogue between youth as the potential future leaders and

preparing them to act as good will ambassadors of their countries, providing a meeting point for

youth from culturally diverse communities, living in harmony and peaceful coexistence.

The conference will be held in English, and the organizers will cover the accommodation expenses of the participants during their stay in Israel. Travel expenses are to be provided by the participants themselves. The conference will include key-note speakers, round-table discussions, a poster exhibition of each participant country's youth programs, and study tours. Participants are invited to bring their national costumes, national flag and other national and folklore items.

Send your Resume today and ask for a registration form at nivedita@dofe.in

Apply to attend 'The International Family Meeting of Friendliness' in Russia from 03-09 August, 2011 Republic of Karelia

Award Russia welcomes all young people, Award Leaders and their friends to the Republic of Karelia, Russia for the third consecutive year. With 150 participants and friends of the Award Programme scheduled to attend, the six day event will showcase cultural exchanges, workshops, sport and adventurous activities for Bronze, Silver and Gold levels of the Award Programme.

The costs for the basic programme is € 100 plus travel expenses (to Petrozavodsk via St. Petersburg, Moscow). Last date to apply is 18th June 2011. Ask for more details now!

53 Gold Awardees recognised at the 2011 Annual Gold Award Ceremony and Celebratory Events in Lok Kala Manch

The Annual Gold Celebrations 2011 Event at the Lok Kala Manch in New Delhi was attended by 53 Gold Awardees, their parents and family members, Award Leaders and special guests.

The Ceremony started at 12.30 pm with a Welcome address by National Director- Mr. Sandeep Dutt. 'Gold' is special to everyone, and it is the experiences while doing the Gold that defines lives of young people. The energy of our Gold Awardees was palpable and the experience sharing by our young leaders, truly showcased how the Award allows young people in India, irrespective of backgrounds and abilities, to truly engage and be 'equipped for life' through varied experiences. The experiences will stay on for life, what is important is to build on passions, engage in communities and stay young after the 'Gold'.

Our Chief Guest, Mr. Vikram Chandra- CEO, NDTV Networks graciously presented the Gold Awards to the 51 Awardees present and encouraged them to stay committed to doing their bit for their communities, particularly the environment.

Much appreciation to our Managing Trustee- Dr. Sanat Kaul for his presence and we are grateful to the Trustees of the Award Programme Foundation for their commitment to make this annual celebratory event open to all!

The Gold Award Holders that were recognised are as follows:

East Zone:-

1. Rahul Dutt- La Martiniere for Boys, Kolkata
2. Anwesha Ghosh- Modern High School for Girls, Kolkata
3. Anushka Halder- South Point High School, Kolkata
4. Nikhil Jhanji- Birla High School for Boys, Kolkata
5. Ojas Patel- Birla High School for Boys, Kolkata
6. Anisha Jain- La Martiniere for Girls School, Kolkata
7. Naman Kaushal- Sainik School, Purulia

West Zone:-

1. Devavrat Pawar- The Scindia School, Gwalior
2. Vikram Bengani- The Scindia School, Gwalior
3. Siddharth Bansal- The Scindia School, Gwalior
4. OmKrishna Prasad Shah- The Scindia School, Gwalior
5. Rachit Dhammawat- The Scindia School, Gwalior
6. Siddharth Bansal- The Scindia School, Gwalior
   
7. Meet Bhagdev- The Galaxy School, Rajkot

North Zone:-

1. Jai Tegh Singh- Lawrence School, Sanawar
2. Shaleen Goel- Sawan Public School, Delhi
3. Sunita Yadav- Vidyadevi Jindal School, Hissar
4. Chinmaya Goyal- Modern School, Barakhamba Road, Delhi
5. Gunjan Bansal- Modern School, Barakhamba Road, Delhi
6. Jaimeet Gandhok- Vivek High School, Chandigarh
7. Deepak Sharma- Sawan Public School, Delhi
8. Ankur Dang- Modern School, Barakhamba Road, Delhi
9. Sushruti Tripathi- Laxman Public School- Delhi

South Zone:-

1. G. Ranjitha- Bhaktavatsalam Vidyashram, Chennai
2. Arjun Ravindharan- Chettinad Vidyashram, Chennai
3. N. Razal Mohamed- Crescent School, Chennai
4. Sneha Tarway- Good Shepherd International School, Ooty
5. V. Shreenath Krishnan- PSSB School, Chennai
6. Bheru Kothari- The Jain International School, Bangalore
7. Anupama Sundar- PSSB School, Chennai
8. Sanaya Irani- The International School, Bangalore

Open Awards Centre (includes YES Centres and India Special Projects):

1. Yash Vardhan Singhania- The Doon School, Dehradun
2. Saransh Seth- The Doon School, Dehradun
3. Prahlad Singh- The Doon School, Dehradun
4. Narayan Dev Parasar-Welham Boys' School, Dehradun
5. Rupa Mallick- Emmanuel Ministries, Kolkata
6. Rohit Mallick- Emmanuel Ministries, Kolkata
7. Rekha Mallick- Emmanuel Ministries, Kolkata
8. Jyoti Mallick- Emmanuel Ministries, Kolkata
9. Arjun Saha- Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys' Academy, Narendarpur
10. Raju Thapa- Salaam Balaak Trust
11. Prince- Salaam Balaak Trust
12. Ajay- Salaam Balaak Trust
13. Pooja Lakshmi- Salaam Balaak Trust
14. Kumari Yadav- Salaam Balaak Trust
15. Sonia- Salaam Balaak Trust
16. Amarjeet- Salaam Balaak Trust
17. Anish- Salaam Balaak Trust
18. Satender- Salaam Balaak Trust
19. Vijay- Salaam Balaak Trust
20. Zeya-Ul- Salaam Balaak Trust
21. Anil- Salaam Balaak Trust

Young people would not successfully complete their Award levels were it not for the encouragement and the leadership they get from Award Coordinators and Volunteers. The National Recognition Certificates formally recognised and appreciated the efforts of the following Adult Coordinators, who have successfully led young people in their areas:

1. Mrs. Menaka Gupta, East Zone Manager- 5 years
2. Mr. A.K Tiwari, Salaam Balaak Trust Award Coordinator- 5 years
3. Mr. Timothy Barretto- Emmanuel Ministries Award Leader- 5 years
4. Mr. Biswajit Ghosh- Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys' Academy Principal- 5 years
5. Mr. Chandan Majumder- Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys' Academy Award Leader- 5 years
6. Mr. SK Jha- Salaam Balaak Trust Award Leader- 5 years
7. Mr. Skand Bali- YES Centre Manager, The Doon School, Dehradun- 3 years

The Award family thanks each of our Gold Holder, Gold Volunteers and Award Leaders, their families for attending and making the 2011 Ceremony a true success.

Special note of appreciation to Samir Kuckreja- CEO, Nirulas' and his team at Nirulas' for hosting lunch post the Award Ceremony.

We look forward to making this Annual Event even bigger!

Gold Award Ceremony 2011 & AGM of the GAHS

Members of the Gold Award Holder's Society, New Gold Awardees of 2011, Guests and Volunteers
Please call us at the NAA office in New Delhi - 26497154 or 26493400 for any clarification.

Gold Holders meet in Kolkata

​       Gold Award Holders’ Society and Gold Awardees Meet, 2010
​              9th December, 2010. Barista, Camac Street, Kolkata
 
 
A meeting called by Mr Sandeep Dutt (National Director, IAYP, India) with the GAHS (Gold Award Holders’ Society) and Gold Awardees of the East was held for the first time on the 9th of December, 2010, at Barista Lavazza, Camac Street.
 
Members Present (with e-mail ids and years of receiving the Gold Award):
• Sandeep Dutt - nd@dofe.in – 1979.
• Meghali Gupta - meghali.shc@gmail.com – 2010.
• Yamini Mookherjee - yamini92@hotmail.com – 2010.
• Kanika Issar - kanika6370@hotmail.com – 2010.
• Anwesha Ghosh - anwesha_ghosh1991@yahoo.com – 2011.
• Gourav Beriwal - gberiwal7@gmail.com – 2010.
• Vishal Shroff - vishal@manvi-india.com – 1995.
• Swasti Shroff - swastishroff@gmail.com – 2008.
• Rakshit Singh - rakshit_singh@hotmail.com – 2007.
• Yohann Engineer - yyengineer.2008@smu.edu.org – 2007.
• Viral Sheth - vdsheth@rediffmail.com – 1997.
• Rajarshi Banerjee - raj_deas@rediffmail.com – 2007.
 
 
 
Program Flow:
1. Commencement of the meeting at 11:35am after the arrival of Mr Dutt
     accompanied by Mr Viral Sheth.
2. Lunch at 1:40pm.
3. Heading for the Annual Awards Presentation Ceremony of the EZAA.
 
Agenda:
(i) Spreading the Award to more schools/colleges.
(ii) Awareness
(iii) Engaging youth between the ages of 18 and 25 yrs.
(iv) Working on and Ensuring Award Completion
(v) Partnering with Business Groups and NGOs
(vi) Relevance of the Award today
(vii) Ensuring Growth of Interest
(viii) Promotion of Community Projects
 
Minutes:
(a) Mr Dutt arrived at Barista, Camac Street accompanied by Viral at 11:30am. Meeting was called to order at 11:35am and it commenced with a brief introduction of all the Awardees present.
(b) Everyone was asked by Mr Dutt to present their views on how to develop the Award further and what could be the roles of each individual or the team to ensure the growth of the Award Programme. Points were added to the Agenda and a detailed discussion followed based on this thought inducing session.
(c) Some ideas put forward and agreed on included :
 
• Reaching the Participants and emphasizing on Inclusive Participation.
• Gold Holders to take the roles of Ambassadors and Leaders to take Award further.
• Looking at New Areas for expansion.
• Visiting schools, colleges, NGOs, Business groups, and other Units or Instituitions to introduce the Award.
o The benefits and challenges to introduce or to run the Award in a Unit were explained by Mr Dutt.
o Benefits of having the Award Program in the Business and vice-versa to be focused on.
o The fact that the Award helps in Leadership Building was to be highlighted and presented while introducing the Award.
• Visiting existing Units to ensure the Award Programme keeps rolling and the Awardees complete their levels.
• Enrolling young adults from all sections of the society, either as a group from a Unit or as individual awardees.
o Involving the society and engaging with people.
o Engaging the 18-25 age-group.
o Partnering between awardees or Units for mutual support to do the Award or complete it.
• Arousing and regenerating interest in new as well as existing participants by :
o Talking to them personally, sharing experiences, and encouraging them pointing out their tangible and intangible benefits.
o Arranging group activities and involving FUN.
o Organizing community projects involving the participants.
o Making the Award Sections flexible and more convenient to the awardees.
• Keeping connected with Gold Awardees and GAHS members through meetings and taking the initiative to take up group projects with regular records of follow-up assessments.
 
 
The Meeting came to a close with all members sharing their Objectives and Goals for the near future and for the long-run. It concluded with some key thoughts as take outs:
• “Think beyond boundaries.”
• “Direct the energy to significant action to ensure fruitful outcome.”
• “Challenge the impossible to bring about change.”
• “Don’t DO the Award, Live the Award"

Annual Gold Event 2010

Annual Gold Award Holders' Summit will be held in December 2010. We welcome suggestions and will be happy to partner with young people and friends to make this  a big success.

Suggestions for INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARD EVENT

The International Secretariat would like to improve on previous IGEs and would appreciate feedback from NAAs as important stakeholders - in response to the questions below - by 23rd September 2010.


Thank you for contributions to Steph Ball at "steph.ball@intaward.org "

1. What are your expectations in the lead up to the IGE?

2. Do you have any feedback or recommendations for the context and framework of the IGE?

3. What do you believe the purpose of the IGE is and the tangible outcomes that could result from such an event?

4. Do you have any recommendations for themes, and the workshops to come from these?

5. Do you have any feedback or recommendations for the Youth Forum which takes place during the IGE, including “what next” after the Youth Forum?

6. What are your expectations of the host country?

7. Do you have any recommendations on the selection process of delegates for the IGE?

8. Do you have any recommendations on how to improve the understanding of the Youth rep role? And the election process?

9. What do you expect after the event has taken place? E.g. activities/delegate/Youth Rep involvement

10. Any other comments?

For more inputs contact the National Office "tripti@iayp.in

Gold Volunteers in Training Team

Freya, Ankit and Devanjali are working in the National Training Team. Look forward to the Training Workshop planned 21st and 22nd Sept 2010, for Max India Ltd.

First Gold Holders' expedition to explore, preserve and build in Spiti

Tentative Dates: late August to early September, 2010. KAZA, Spiti

National Award Partner- Ecosphere and the Gold Award Holders' Society of India are proud to present a "Meaningful trek" exclusively for Gold Award Holders and Gold Award participants. This expedition spanning a total duration of 15 days will include 4 days of travelling, 5 days of active volunteering and 6 days of trekking and sightseeing.

Route: Delhi - Manali – Spiti – Manali – Delhi.

Maximum Altitude: 5000 metres above sea level.

We invite you to a different kind of holiday that makes travel meaningful through active discovery of the magic of Spiti valley while contributing to the development and conservation of the region. Home to some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries and temples in the world, this Trip provides an interesting insight into Spitian life, culture and Buddhist heritage along with the opportunity to be part of reducing the impacts of climate change. During this journey you will be assisting the local community in the construction of a solar bathing facility. You will participate in the actual construction of the solar passive structure and will be assisted by a dedicated team of a qualified mason and representative from Ecosphere. During the trip you will also be hiking along some of the highest villages in the world, across rolling meadows which are the grazing pastures of the local livestock and the hunting grounds of the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Wolf. Each village along this trail is adorned by unique and ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples dating back to over a 1000 years, encased in legend and folklore. The home stay accommodation along the trail further enriches the experience by giving one an authentic understanding of the life and culture in a Spitian home. Your hosts are the local people of Spiti, accommodating you in their homes to enhance your sojourn in Spiti.

Highlights

• A carbon positive trip where by building a solar bathing facility for the local community, you will help reduce carbon emissions and enhance health of the local people and also offset the carbon emitted on your journey to Spiti.

• Experience rural life in the Himalayas by living with the local community and becoming a part of their daily lives. This is one rare opportunity to learn about local cultures, agriculture, ecological and socio-economic issue first hand, while making tangible contributions.

• Make lifelong relationships with real people in one of the remotest corners of the Himalayas. A journey that makes you part of a family and the community as a whole, their day to day lives, their relationship with the environment, their daily chores, religious strivings, struggles and celebrations.

• Hiking deep into the vast open spaces of this rugged backcountry. A great way to learn about the ecology and bio-diversity that is nurtured amidst this unique desertscape.

• Visits the ancient monasteries dating back to over a 1000 years preserving a living Buddhist tradition till date.

• Get insights into the local development and conservation issues and a peep into Ecosphere’s initiatives to ensure the sustainable development of this Trans-Himalayan region.

Significance of the Project in this Trip

The construction of a solar bathing facility is of great significance in Spiti as large amounts of fuel wood, coal and LPG are burnt for heating water throughout the year which contributes to Carbon dioxide and black carbon emissions. The latter has far more damaging effects on the melting of glaciers and snow at a local level. Through the set up of a solar bathing structure, we will not only enable the local community to cut down on emissions (especially those of black carbon), reduce their fuel wood consumption and hence the money they spend on it per annum, as well as enable them (especially the women and children) to enhance their levels of hygiene.

Contact the GAHS Team at the National Office by July 31st with your confirmed participation and get more information. Come be a part of a historic effort to relive Award Journeys, share experiences and make a difference to your community. All while having a great time!

Annual General Meeting, 24th of June 2010

Modern School, New Delhi, India
Present:        GAHS Executive Committee

                        President- Ishita Khanna

                        Vice President- Tripti Bansal

                        Secretary- Pranay Kapoor

                        Joint Secretary- Saachi Sarin

                        Treasurer- Sandeep Dutt

                        Youth Rep- Rohit Saxena

                        Award Holder, Hon. Secretary- West- Juzer Shaikhally

           

47 Members

Hon. Secretary- East- Bivujit Mukhoty

            Hon. Secy- GAHS- Nivedita Samanta

Observers: Ms. Gilly Shirazi, Secretary General, International Award Association

                   Ms. Sue Walker, Asia Pacific Regional Director

Programme Flow:

            12.30 pm- Arrival and Registration

            1 pm- Lunch & Fellowship. Lunch sponsored by Nirula’s.

            2 pm- Gather for Annual Gold Meeting

Agenda

1.     About GAHS

2.     Introduction and approval of Executive Committee Members, Honorary GAHS Secretaries and present individual members

3.     Sharing and approval of work done since inception of GAHS in March 2010

4.     Introduce auditor and consider, approve and adopt audited statement

5.     President to share plan and vision. Open House Discussion-for the way ahead, suggestion of future programmes and establish priorites

6.     Any adoption or amendments of Rules and Regulations of the Society, if necessary

Minutes

1. Meeting was called to order at 2.15 pm by GAHS President-Ishita. She proceeded to introduce GAHS for the benefit of new members.

The Gold Award Holders’ Society registered on March 8, 2010 is the premier Alumni network for Gold Holders in India. With the motto of Cherishing Service and Relationship (CSR), GAHS is an effort to create more awareness about the Award in our country and to rope in exuberant Award Holders, who feel for the Award and are keen to give back, GAHS exists for the provision, promotion and preservation of the International Award in India. The GAHS Office runs currently from the National Office but has presence all across the country. With Honorary Secretaries currently in the West and East Zones, for better administration, communication and growth of the Award, GAHS will function as a completely independent setup to assist in alumni relations and growth of the Award Programme as per the Strategic Plan of the National Office.

2. Ishita asked all Executive Committee Members to introduce themselves. The Executive Committee features Award Holders from over the years so that there is diversity of experiences for best possible growth. To supplement GAHS’ efforts to round up maximum members across the country, enthusiastic Award Holders and otherwise have been identified and made Honorary Executive Secretaries. So far from the East Zone, Bivujit Mukhoty, from the West- Juzer Shaikhally and recently from the South- Sridhar Lakshmanan are the Honorary Secretaries.

Warm welcome given to our special guests- Gilly Shirazi and Sue Walker by everyone present

Ishita proceeded to ask all individual members to introduce themselves and say a few words about their Award experiences. This exercise reflected the great experiences that the Award allows every young people.

Most people felt that the Award is the complete package for enhancing personality, to grow in a well-rounded manner. There were several comments from members who have completed all Award levels that they had experiences of a lifetime. Residential and Service Projects particularly allowed them to improve their personalities, become a team worker, learn about new things, and overcome fears through fun learning. Some felt that it is absolutely necessary to become volunteers to promote the Award in their schools, localities in an effort to allow more young people to go on self-discoveries, think beyond marks and academics and cherish the importance of small things.

3. GAHS organised the first GAHS Summit on 23^rd December, 2009 in New Delhi. This first effort brought together some Gold Holders from generations and introduced to them the National Strategic Plan for the growth of the Award Programme in the next three years. With the challenge to grow, especially in the 18-25 age groups, and introduce half a million young Indians to the Award, garnering Gold Holders, the best ambassadors for the Programme, as volunteers and Award Leaders will successfully create a network of people trained to ensure quality and service our society.

Since, volunteers at the National Office have worked towards the registration of the Society with the Registrar of Societies in India and with the efforts of Accountant- Mr. Sunil Trehan of Sunil Trehan & Co., GAHS was registered on March 8, 2010.

Over a few small meetings with the President, Treasurer and GAHS Members an event to bring together Award Holders, Award partners and potential partners from education, government, corporate and social sectors was felt necessary. The CSR Summit held on June 23, 2010 was successful in bringing together different stakeholders of the Award Programme to collaboratively engage youth in our society.

4. Sunil Trehan, Sunil Trehan & Co. Was approved as auditor for GAHS. Audited statements will be made available soon. Every member of GAHS can look at statements on formal request.

5. Plan ahead: working together on future programmes for networking and Award development

Some ideas put forward and agreed on included

·       Annual/bi-annual  events like a trek or Residential Projects or Service projects for GAHs in collaboration with Volunteer Organisations and/or Service Providers

o   Each zone can do pilots on a section of the Award Programme

o   Events like music concerts that may help provide finances to sustain future events. International exchanges/events can follow once we can prove sustainability.

·       GAHS Members as Award Ambassadors NEED to talk about the Award to create more visibility

o   Share Award stories and experiences on all Public Relations/Communications Mediums. As PR/Communications are at a nascent stage, it is important to lay ground work collectively and record Award stories to National Communications Team

o   Try to help Bronze, silver to complete Gold and to ensure better Gold completion rates in Award units in all zones.

o   To create more word about the Award, get young professionals/interns involved in Communications and PR strategy.

Confirmations to work together- every member present committed to give support and introduce atleast 5 other Gold Holders to register with GAHS in the next one year

The meeting concluded with all members sharing their Goals for the year. T-shirts for all Gold Holders were distributed and new Gold Awardees headed for the Presentation Ceremony at the Vice President of India, Residence. 

This is a true copy of the minutes and the list of Members of the Society present exists on the Register on record, at the NAA Office.