I want to share a very special experience from my life — my 7-day journey with Young Tinker Foundation. This foundation builds “Skill Consciousness” and promotes “Problem-Solving through Hands-On STEM” among high school students. It helps them learn through doing, and motivates them to dream big and try something different in life.
These 7 days were not just training days for me — they were days full of joy, learning, and small beautiful moments that touched my heart.
On my first day, I spent time understanding the foundation, the principles it believes in, and how it works. From the second day, my actual training started, and I was introduced to something really exciting – Tinker on Wheels. This is a mobile STEM lab that goes to different schools and brings STEM education directly to children in a fun, hands-on way. I found this idea simply amazing!
On the third day, I visited Biju Pattnaik Memorial Government High School. I spent time with the children, launched a rocket with them, and explained the science behind it. Their shining eyes, endless questions, and innocent smiles made me feel alive. Their questions were funny, unique, and full of curiosity, and I loved every minute of it. I felt like I was learning with them too.
The fifth day was also spent with school students. We made windmills, solar houses, and rainwater harvesting models. We also did a cool experiment using a DC motor to lift water. The students were fully engaged and enjoyed everything. Seeing their happy faces made me feel proud and thankful.
Then came the day of coding and 3D printing. I showed the students how to write their names on a micro:bit, and we even printed the first letter of their names using a 3D printer. The children were super excited to see all this happening in front of their eyes. Their energy was pure magic!
But the most unforgettable moment for me was eating lunch with the children. I sat down with them on the ground, had food just like them, and shared stories. It was simple, but so heartwarming. I had never felt such pure joy before.
On the last day, we talked about how to protect our environment and what we can do to keep our planet safe for the next generation. We gave certificates to the children and school too. Principal ma’am thanked us for our efforts. Her kind words really touched me.
Every day was new, exciting, and meaningful, not just for the children, but for me too.
Apart from all this, I also learned some really useful things during the training. One was the FATAC method – it helps to find the right solution to a problem. Another was the DMW formula – Doable, Moneyable, Wantable, which helps to choose the best idea from many. These tools were simple but powerful, and they changed how I think.
One big thing I realised is: work can also be fun. I never felt like I was working. I felt like I was living the life I always wanted – full of happiness, learning, and creativity.
I’m truly grateful to the Young Tinker Foundation for giving me this chance to follow my passion, to live with purpose, and to be with children who made me laugh, think, and grow.
Thank you, Young Tinker. I hope I can continue to inspire more children and play a small part in lighting up their futures.