This week at ISDM began with Dr. Akhtar Badshahβs Purpose Mindset workshop β a reminder that my Purpose Driver (Responsive) is about removing obstacles and creating space for others to grow. I revisited my strengths β Visionary, Connector, Strategist β and reaffirmed my core values of Giving, Gratitude, and Spirituality.
Dr. Badshahβs feedback nudged me to share how I live my purpose every day. This tied perfectly into our PLC 4 β VikΔsa Taranga (Wave of Growth) sessions, where we co-created a purpose statement:
We envision bold possibilities to create meaningful change by empowering people, driving innovation, and inspiring growth.
With our strengths anchored in vision, connection, and strategy β and values rooted in compassion, gratitude, and spirituality β we set team norms: start every meeting with a check-in, raise hands to speak, stay open to reflection, and use Karma Points to make gratitude a shared practice.
Key Learning Highlights (ISDM Term 1)
Purpose Mindset (Dr. Akhtar Badshah): Rediscovered my Purpose Driver Responsive β finding fulfillment in removing obstacles so others can grow.
Context-Based Collaborative Learning (CBCL) (Simrita): Drafting PLC group contracts and learning the balance of collaboration, accountability, and co-creation.
Perspectives on Society & Development (Jahnvi Andharia): Seeing development through human stories, not just policies.
Data Analysis for Development (Maitrayee Mukerji): Using evidence and numbers to drive decisions that truly create impact β with a quick 2-minute joy break to keep things light.
Writing in Discipline (Pia Bakshi, Shivangi Bhasin & team): Building a sharper voice to express complex ideas with clarity.
Musings goes live
Our platform Musings β View the Multiverse is live!
335 visits, 214 unique readers, 16 thoughtful submissions
Mostly mobile readers in India with some from New Zealand, Netherlands, Australia, and Germany
PC: Cohortβ 9
Early feedback says weβre sparking real curiosity and reflection
New member has joined as our content writer and storyteller
Weβre actively looking for a video editor for our podcast
Beyond Class
Pizza with neighbors β first PLC hangout since I joined, all laughter and good vibes!
Independence Day celebrations reminded us why purpose-driven leadership matters.
404 band jam proved music makes learning lighter. Thank you 404. Band
Metro rides with Pao mama saved 256g of COβ per person β small choices, real impact.
PC: unknown
We closed the week with Cohort 9βs first movie night (Coolie!), pool time, and wellness club plans β laughter, bonding, and balance all in one.
Bonus: Found a shop running 50% + 25% offers β perfect end to the week!
Working on Entrepreneur Hangout Space
Reflections
Itβs been a full week β classes, projects, and a lot of learning. In the middle of it all, I kept thinking about home, about my mom holding things together while caring for grandpa. It keeps me grounded and grateful.
I wake up each day to spark ideas, bring people together, and help them grow.
This week reminded me that purpose works best when itβs shared.
PC: Mr. Kim
Whatβs Next
CBCL & PLC group contract submission β Aug 18
Research Methods sessions β Aug 19 onward
Writing in Discipline: finish reading Alan Thomasβ What is Development Management by August 20
DODM at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre β Aug 21, 9 AM (dodm.isdm.org.in)
How do you keep your personal purpose alive in your team or community?
Share your thoughts on Musings β View the Multiverse!
Thanks for being part of this journey β letβs keep building purpose and community together.
Disclaimer: These reflections are part of my personal journey and are shared to inspire dialogue, learning, and exchange of ideas. I welcome your feedback, stories, and perspectives. All views expressed are my own and do not represent the official position of ISDM or any other organization mentioned.
