My parents were not so patriotic – in fact I only remember attending one Maaveerar Naal before I joined TYO UK and although I was born back home, I have little to no memories. I joined TYO UK not knowing exactly what it would bring me. I wanted do some volunteering and it was a platform I was pointed to by a friend. If there is one positive choice I made in life thus far to better myself, it is the choice I made to join TYO.
It made me so curious and made me seek knowledge. I learnt so much from so many people and had platforms that allowed me to develop skills that I had no idea was within my reach. It made me want to learn more, because I was so proud and mesmerized by the history that is of my ancestors. My involvement led me to change my education and career path.
I doubt I would be half as confident as I am now if I had not got involved in TYO. I also doubt whether I would have been as connected to my language and homeland as I am today if I had not joined TYO. E.g. I now enjoy finding new words and conversing in Tamil; I enjoy analysing political turnpoints; and I enjoy reading and sharing inspiring stories.
Amongst other things, TYO has made me more emphatic, more socially aware and more ambitious, and I am forever grateful.
