A dedicated PhD student in the Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics at IISc Bangalore, has proven that his passion for making a positive impact knows no bounds. Not only is he pursuing his academic dreams, but he also serves as the General Secretary of the iNNER-EYE Foundation, an organization he’s been an integral part of for the last four years. Veerarahavan’s journey is a testament to the idea that one can balance their academic and research commitments with the noble cause of giving back to the community.
Veerarahavan’s story began in 2019 when he joined iNNER-EYE Foundation as a volunteer. Over the years, he gradually took on more responsibilities, navigating the challenges posed by the COVID- 19 pandemic, and eventually assuming the role of General Secretary. He’s even served as the acting CEO on two occasions. During his time with iNNER-EYE Foundation, he’s initiated and managed a variety of projects, ranging from feeding slum dwellers and distributing clothes and sanitary napkins to underprivileged women and girls to supporting old-age homes and providing educational services. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Veerarahavan recalls how he and a friend took it upon themselves to feed hungry street dogs on their college campus every day. In addition to this, he raised funds to provide continuous support to slum dwellers for eight months. Balancing his roles as a PhD scholar and a philanthropist came with its unique set of challenges, including demanding deadlines, long hours in the lab, and physical and mental health issues.
When asked about what motivates him to dedicate his time and energy to iNNER-EYE Foundation alongside his academic pursuits, Veerarahavan’s response is both enlightening and heartfelt: “Volunteering changes one’s perception towards the world. It’s not like I am helping others; it’s rather that this volunteering service is helping me.” He firmly believes that iNNER-EYE is not just an organization; it’s the people within it who make it extraordinary.” Veerarahavan’s advice to newcomers in the field of volunteering is invaluable. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with the right group of individuals who are committed to the cause. This alignment, he believes, maximizes the collective effort of the team, ensuring that everyone is at their best. Alongside this, he underscores the significance of effective time management and priority setting, skills that one inevitably hones while balancing volunteer work with a regular job. These skills empower individuals to make informed decisions when challenges arise.
Veerarahavan’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of volunteering and the incredible impact one person can have on their community. His passion, dedication, and commitment to making the world a better place, even amidst the rigors of academia, serve as an inspiration to us all. He is proof that with the right mindset and a strong sense of purpose, anyone can create meaningful change in the world. Veerarahavan’s story reminds us that there is always an opportunity to serve and make a difference, no matter how busy or demanding one’s life may be.
“At this very young age, he is having such qualities — being kind with people and animals, tolerance, being more patience, generous in giving time and service. He is one of the important pillars of iNNER-EYE and he has been the reason the Foundation has reached another stage of development between 2019-2022 after his association with us. His perception of life is different always; and He is a great human being…” — Shanmugavel Says
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