Guiding Dreams

Zero to One — Natun Fatasil Town High School

Field Journal

By: Arnab Barua

2024

5 min read

Zero to One — A Journey Begins at Natun Fatasil Town High School

Stepping onto the campus of Natun Fatasil Town High School for our second visit, I felt an unexpected familiarity mixed with excitement. Today marked "Day 0" of our work here — a formal beginning to a journey that we hope will inspire resilience, connection, and a sense of belonging for the children and teachers of this school.

We were greeted by Gargi, the passionate and dedicated Class 7 teacher who was instrumental in bringing us to the school. She led us to the meeting room, where we finalised session plans and timetables. Marami, the Class 5 teacher, joined us, and together, we discussed how to integrate our sessions without burdening the existing school schedule. Within minutes, we found simple solutions that fit seamlessly. The teachers' openness and willingness to adjust reassured us that we were in the right place.

The headmistress, Purabi Das Kalita, soon entered the room. Known as the "Iron Lady" for her tenacity and resilience, Purabi's story is one of strength and dedication to her students. After aligning on the plan with Gargi and Marami, we signed the MoU. Smiles filled the room as we presented HM and the two teachers with gratitude notes, exchanged handshakes, and took a few photos to capture the moment. With the formalities complete, it was time to meet the students.

The Classroom Experience: "Theory U" in Action

We entered Class 7 with anticipation, as the students looked at us with curiosity and excitement. Valentina began with a warm, open smile, immediately captivating their attention. Her presence was calming, her voice inviting. She asked, "Would you like to play a game with me?" Instantly, there were nods, smiles, and a new energy in the room.

The activity was simple but revealing. We asked the children to leave their seats and find a new one. A delightful chaos erupted as kids searched, swapped, stumbled, and laughed. A minute later, everyone settled into new seats, and Valentina asked them to show thumbs up or thumbs down to express how it felt.

One boy put his thumb down. When we asked why, he simply said, "I didn't celebrate Diwali this year." Another joined in, quietly sharing the same experience. Here, in the midst of the laughter, we glimpsed the quieter realities some of these children live through — moments they carry with them silently.

As we guided them through a brief mindfulness exercise, asking them to focus on their breathing, a serene calm filled the room. Valentina used a meditation bowl, striking it gently, and the soft resonance enveloped the space. Later, a teacher whose class we had interrupted shared that she had felt the entire energy shift.

"It was beautiful. I could feel a deep calm settle over the children." — A teacher whose class we had briefly interrupted.

After a few moments, we asked the students to return to their original seats — "back home," as Valentina described it. This time, they moved with more intention, more awareness of the comfort of the familiar. When asked if they noticed any difference, some spoke of feeling unsettled in a friend's seat, others of a newfound appreciation for their own. It was a simple exercise but layered with insights about comfort, change, and the emotions that come with it.

Building Connection and Trust

Following Valentina's session, I introduced myself and Guiding Dreams. I shared our purpose: to create a space free of judgement, free of grades — where they could be "bindaas," where they could speak openly, share freely, and dream without limits. I explained our three core goals: to build empathy, spread happiness, and nurture inner strength.

When I asked if they knew what "dreams" meant, they replied softly in unison, "Xopun." But when I asked about "guiding," silence followed until one brave girl raised her hand and said, "It's to help us achieve our dreams." Her words echoed the very heart of why we are here.

The experience in Class 5 was no different, though the energy was lighter, more spontaneous. Valentina repeated the exercise, inviting the children to move, breathe, and share their feelings. Laughter and whispers filled the air, but by the end of the session, a calmness took over. I noticed small gestures — some children reached out to friends, others flashed shy smiles.

Here, too, we saw the need for connection, encouragement, and a gentle reminder that they are not alone. Some children seemed to crave a reassuring pat, a kind word, or a simple "It's okay." They needed to feel seen, to know that someone is here to listen, to guide, to celebrate their small victories and support them in their quiet struggles.

A Moment to Reflect: The Heart of Community

As we wrapped up our sessions and returned to the meeting room, the headmistress joined us for a cup of black tea. We debriefed the day, sharing laughter and reflections. Walking back to the office, I felt immense gratitude — not only for the opportunity to work with these children but also for everyone who has helped us get here.

Two classes. Dozens of students. One shared language beginning to form.
Teachers who opened their doors and adjusted without hesitation.
A headmistress who stayed for tea and stayed for the conversation.

Students raising hands — the energy of Day 0

Today was our "Zero to One" moment — a step from vision to reality, a humble beginning with limitless potential.

As we left the school, Valentina and I reflected on the day and the inspiring potential that these students hold. It was the start of countless connections, stories, and positive changes waiting to unfold. We're thrilled to continue this journey, and to witness, firsthand, the growth of these young minds. Here's to the journey, from "Zero to One" and beyond.