Resilient Roots and Healing Hearts
The Matai Society and Siyom collaboration, a month-long project, kicked off with a successful Instagram live fundraising event in October 2023 featuring Rishikesh Thangjam (The Koi), Nganthoi (Leihou), Pa Thawan (Atingkok), and Chaoba Thiyam (Siyom), to response to the affected children cause by the conflict between the Kuki and Meitei community on the 3rd May 2023 in Manipur
The Matai Society and Siyom collaboration, a month-long project, kicked off with a successful Instagram live fundraising event in October 2023 featuring Rishikesh Thangjam (The Koi), Nganthoi (Leihou), Pa Thawan (Atingkok), and Chaoba Thiyam (Siyom), to response to the affected children cause by the conflict between the Kuki and Meitei community on the 3rd May 2023 in Manipur
Starting on November 9, 2023, the project commenced with a 7-day Visual Literacy and Storytelling (Photography) workshop, followed by engaging activities:
- From November 20, 2023, a Pena Workshop conducted by Niketan Laishram and Chaoba Thiyam.
- Jagoi Workshop led by Angom Tombi.
- Flute sessions guided by Ghanaraj Pebam.
To foster a lasting connection with the camp's children, initiatives include:
- Purchasing Cyber-shot cameras for their practice.
- Acquiring musical instruments like ukulele, flute, pena, keyboard, guitar, etc., housed in the Matai Society.
- Establishing a dedicated music room for regular practice sessions and periodic tutoring.
We introduced Anapana Meditation to both children and volunteers in the Relief Camp, emphasizing its significance for mental health. This practice stands as a crucial component of the project, aiming to fortify our minds and enhance resilience in the face of life's challenges. Our goal is to empower them to incorporate it as a tool, applicable in any situation they encounter.