The MindShare Program: A creative Narrative Platform

The culmination of the MindShare program on August 28, 2024, at the vibrant Yogibear Collective in Hyderabad was a testament to the power of storytelling. This Presentation and Graduation Ceremony marked not just the conclusion but the celebration of an inspiring journey embarked upon by five exceptional finalists — Archana Purohit, Jyoti Reddy, Mrinalini Shastry, Rashi Biyani, and Sharmili Chaddha. These participants dedicated themselves to months of intensive training, honing their skills in the art of storytelling and public speaking.

The journey of the MindShare program began on April 13, 2024, with an eagerly anticipated Launch Event. Participants were welcomed into a nurturing environment designed to foster growth and transformation. Esteemed mentors, including Mr. Viiveck Verma, TEDxHyderabad Curator & Advisor, set the tone for the program, emphasising the critical role storytelling plays in both personal and professional development.
The program officially kicked off with group sessions on August 9, 2024. These Interactive Sessions & Storytelling Drills were crafted to push participants out of their comfort zones. They learned the fundamentals of narrative structure and mastered the nuances of public speaking. The hands-on approach ensured that participants were not mere spectators but active creators, shaping their stories with purpose and intent.

Personalised training took place on August 12, 2024, under the guidance of Mr. Viiveck Verma, whose storytelling expertise was instrumental in the program. As the Curator and Licensee of TEDxHyderabad, Mr. Verma brought a wealth of knowledge and experience that deeply enriched the participants’ learning. The journey toward the final event continued with the selection of the five finalists on August 20, 2024, by a panel of distinguished judges: Mr. Sushil Rao, Mr. Taher Ali Baig, and Ms. Shilpa Nainani. These finalists then received additional training on August 23, 2024, to prepare for their final presentations.

Throughout the program, participants experienced several Spotlight Moments, where they had the opportunity to share their evolving stories with peers and mentors. These moments were pivotal in building the confidence and clarity necessary for the final presentation. The atmosphere of camaraderie fostered by the program ensured that each participant was not only focused on their own success but also invested in the growth and development of their peers.

The final event on August 28, 2024, was the culmination of this transformative journey. Each finalist took the stage with confidence and grace, delivering narratives that were not just stories but windows into their souls. Their presentations offered glimpses into their journeys of self-discovery, resilience, and determination, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling — the very essence of the MindShare program.

Adding a special touch to the evening was an inspiring talk by Mr. Suheim Sheikh, President of the Yacht Club of Hyderabad and a distinguished TEDx speaker. Known for his dedication to training marginalised youth in sailing, many of whom have gone on to become national champions, Mr. Sheikh’s journey resonated deeply with the audience. His commitment to nurturing young talent added a profound layer of inspiration to the event, reminding everyone of the potential that lies within each individual.

As the finalists stood before the audience, they exemplified not only the skills of accomplished speakers but also the core impact of the MindShare program. Their stories resonated on a deep level, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present. The evening concluded with a sense of celebration and accomplishment as each finalist was recognized for their growth, courage, and the remarkable strides they had made in their storytelling journey.

Reflecting on the journey, Ridhi Jain, Chairperson of YFLO Hyderabad, said, “Our goal was to empower you to craft compelling narratives and captivate audiences. Seeing your growth from the first day to today brings me immense joy. Public speaking is about making a genuine connection, and each of you has done just that. I have no doubt that many of you will go on to shine on the TEDx stage, sharing your stories with the world and inspiring countless others.”

The MindShare program, through its meticulously crafted sessions and supportive environment, achieved its mission of empowering individuals through the transformative power of storytelling. The journey not only equipped participants with valuable skills but also ignited a passion for sharing their stories with the world. As the final applause echoed through the room on August 28, 2024, the spirit of MindShare lived on, ready to inspire the next generation of storytellers.