What happens when experienced professionals take time out to mentor young people, guiding them on how to shape their careers?
At YUVA’s Indradhanush Youth Resource Centres in Kandivali, Borivali, and Bandra, this question came alive as HDFC Bank employee volunteers interacted with young participants in a series of career readiness sessions. The atmosphere was filled with optimism and energy, as industry veterans offered practical advice and encouragement, while the youth responded with curiosity and determination.
These sessions were more than just an exchange of information. They helped participants from some of Mumbai’s most marginalised urban communities reflect on their strengths, build confidence, and set both short-term and long-term career goals. For youth aged 18–29, who often juggle financial struggles and social challenges, the guidance was an important reminder that their aspirations are achievable.
This initiative is part of a two-year CSR project between HDFC Bank and YUVA, focused on holistic youth development, including job readiness, civic awareness, livelihood support, and support to mental well-being.
Reflecting on challenges, failure and growth in Kandivali
The Kandivali session began with a sense of curiosity and anticipation. Akshay Shah, Vice President – Tech & Digital, HDFC Bank, with over 27 years of professional experience, opened the discussion by emphasising the importance of handling challenges with a calm mind. He shared how difficulties had often tested him in his own journey, but instead of letting them stop him, he chose to look for alternatives and keep moving forward. For the young people listening, many of whom navigate hardships daily, this was a reassuring reminder that challenges are not the end of the road, but moments to pause, adapt, and continue with renewed strength.
As the session continued, the conversation turned to the topic of time management. Shah reminded the group that while time is fixed and cannot be extended, discipline lies in simply valuing each hour and choosing how to use it. The youth responded thoughtfully, recognising how often small distractions pulled them away from their goals, and how even awareness of this could be the first step toward change.
The discussion soon shifted to what really shapes a future – education and careers. “A degree may give you a start, but it is not enough to stand out,” Shah explained. “What matters is your skill, your confidence, and how you carry yourself. Build yourself in a way that you can stand with confidence anywhere.” This resonated with many students, who, despite working hard on their studies, were still unsure about their career paths. His words encouraged them to see beyond marks and certificates, and to invest in building confidence, communication, and practical knowledge – qualities that employers truly value. “It is important to learn soft skills for our competence, as these are necessary to build our career,” Shah said.
There was also space to talk about mistakes and failures, subjects that often carry stigma. Shah expressed them with clarity: “Don’t fear failure. It is only through mistakes that we learn. Every failed attempt carries the seed of growth.” The youth responded with reflective silence. Some later shared challenges they had faced in school or exams, understanding that these moments didn’t define them, but could help them grow.
Finally, Shah encouraged the youth to stay observant. “Observe people around you – how they talk, how they behave. We are all human beings, but those who learn from others move faster.” This reminder left the group thinking about how much they could gain just by being attentive to their surroundings, whether in classrooms, workplaces, or even in their own neighbourhoods.
By the end of the session, the space had become one where students could reflect, take away practical advice, and learn from each other’s personal stories.
Exploring strengths and aspirations in Borivali
At the Borivali centre, the enthusiasm was equally high. Samir Sharma, Deputy Vice President – Operations at HDFC Bank and the facilitator for the session, began by sharing a short motivational story of India’s Asia Cup hockey win, linking sports discipline to life lessons. “Physical fitness”, he explained, “is not just about the body – if you are active physically, your brain will be sharper too.”
The discussion moved towards goals and difficulties. As youth opened up about their aspirations, Shah brought them to life with examples from real achievers. He shared the journey of a tennis legend with 22 Grand Slam titles to illustrate how even highly talented individuals face challenges like frustration, pressure, and anger. The story showed that success is not just about skill or hard work, it’s also about managing emotions, staying calm under pressure, and focusing on the task at hand. By controlling anger and channelling energy positively, one can perform consistently and achieve extraordinary results.
The discussion then moved to an inspiring story of Arunima Sinha, a differently-abled woman who overcame immense physical and mental challenges to climb Mount Everest. Arunima had the opportunity to meet Bachendri Pal, India’s first woman to scale Everest, who told her:
“Agar tune dimag mein liya hai na, to samajh ki tune Mount Everest paar kiya hai”
(If you have decided in your mind, then consider that you have already climbed Mount Everest).
This message stayed with the group, showing that with determination and a strong mind, even the toughest challenges can be faced. Despite losing a leg in a tragic accident, Arunima refused to let her disability define her limits. Her journey reminded the youth that with courage, focus, and self-belief, any goal, no matter how big, can be achieved.
The mentor also spoke about shyness and how to overcome it. “Be prepared whenever you want to talk with anyone. If you know your subject and stay confident, your words will carry weight,” he advised.For many participants, these stories connected deeply. One young person reflected, “The story reminded me that success doesn’t come all at once. Even small steps count, and each effort brings me closer to my goal.“
The two-hour session in Borivali was engaging and dynamic, with youth actively participating and asking thoughtful questions about careers, exams, and practical strategies to achieve their goals.
Bandra: Voices of aspiration and change
At YUVA’s Indradhanush Resource Centre in Bandra, the discussion took a personal turn as Samiksha Karnavat, Senior Manager – Internal Risk Management at HDFC Bank, who facilitated this session, shared insights from her own personal journey of leaving Nashik for Mumbai, adapting to local trains and food, and stepping outside her comfort zone to build a career.
“What helped me,” she told the group, “was self-confidence, planning, and a positive attitude. If you can convince yourself first, then you can convince your family and take the next step.”
Karnavat also shared how she balanced her professional career with her passion for travel, having explored India and even travelled solo to seven countries. She introduced the concept of SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), showing students how to map their strengths and plan around challenges.
Youth participants responded by sharing their own stories. One youth spoke about her dream of becoming an IAS officer. She had already started preparing and had taken small opportunities like teaching on Teacher’s Day to gain confidence. Another girl described how her love for mehendi art turned into a small business, despite her father’s initial reluctance. “Now he is proud of me,” she smiled. “And with this work, I can even support my family.”
Zoya, another participant, shared how she struggled to pay her school fees. “I got a chance to participate in a youth event in Delhi through YUVA, and from that, I found support for my education. My mother has been my strength throughout.”Listening to Karnavat, many of the girls said they felt understood. As she noted, “Families are often more careful with girls, so you may have to explain your plans in detail. But once you show them your seriousness, they will support you.”
A space for exchange
Across all three sessions, what stood out was the exchange, not just of advice, but of real, lived experiences. HDFC Bank employee mentors shared lessons from years of professional and personal journeys, while the youth spoke openly about their challenges and aspirations. The conversations were dynamic and engaging, leaving both mentors and participants with fresh insights and renewed inspiration.
By the end of the sessions, the youth had gained practical guidance and a clearer sense of direction. They learned how to set realistic goals, make informed decisions, and build the confidence needed to navigate challenges with focus and resilience. Mentors, in turn, walked away with new perspectives, seeing firsthand how guidance and shared experiences can make a tangible difference. Across Kandivali, Borivali, and Bandra, the sessions demonstrated that when knowledge meets curiosity and determination, young people are empowered to take meaningful steps toward shaping their futures.
