Shivrai Pokharkar - Solapur, Maharashtra

 

Namaskar,

I am Shivrai Pokharkar, a Chartered Accountant (CA) and Company Secretary (CS) aspirant, currently pursuing my Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree in Pune and natively from Solapur Maharashtra. My passions revolve around traveling, exploring new places, and particularly immersing myself in the beauty of the Sahyadri mountain ranges and ancient forts.

Upon completing my 12th grade, I found myself overwhelmed with a sense of adventure and an eagerness to explore. I wanted to experience life fully—travel, meet new people, and embrace the freedom that came with my age. I spent my days hanging out with friends, making new connections, and indulging in the carefree joys that come with being young. I was confident that the path I had chosen, pursuing CA, was the right one for me, but little did I know what it takes to be a CA.

During a vacation just before my graduation, I was introduced to the "Let's Make A Difference" (LMAD) conference by my elder cousins, who assured me it would be an enriching eight-day experience. Eager for a new adventure, I packed my bags and headed to Asia Plateau, Panchgani. At the time, I had no idea what LMAD was all about. I thought it would be a fun and casual experience, filled with like-minded youth from across the country. What awaited me, however, was much more profound.

As the conference unfolded, I was introduced to the ABCD of LMAD—values and lessons that resonated deeply within me. The first few days were a whirlwind of questions and introspection, which I struggled to grasp. I found myself avoiding the discomfort these questions stirred within me, preferring instead to focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings. But when the topic of introspection was introduced more deeply, I realized the significance of those questions and began to reflect on them. I started understanding how my dreams and aspirations, particularly my goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant, were being influenced by the people around me—especially my friends and more or less me—and how my path was not aligning with my true values.

By the end of the NYC, I made a promise to myself to stay true to my goals. However, I knew in the back of my mind that keeping that promise would be challenging. Nonetheless, I took away some invaluable lessons: I learned the importance of starting my day early, managing my time effectively, and developing better listening skills. Most importantly, I gained clarity about the changes I needed to make within myself, and the steps I must take to achieve my goals. This journey also helped me improve my decision-making skills and deepened my understanding of the importance of surrounding myself with great minds.

Volunteering at subsequent regional conferences in Jalandhar and Ayikudi further solidified my commitment to the LMAD values. Being part of these events gave me an overwhelming sense of fulfillment, as I witnessed firsthand the impact these conferences had on participants. I learned the intricacies of team management and coordination, and experienced the joy of helping others understand the profound values of LMAD. With every conference, I gained new insights into my own character and realized the positive influence I could have on society. Watching the transformation of participants filled my heart with pride, knowing that I was contributing to something meaningful.

One of the most transformative experiences for me was the opportunity to stay at the fellow house for a month, living with Viral Sir and other fellows. It was during this time that I truly rediscovered the essence of what I had learned at the national conference. The teachings and practices that had left an imprint on me were reignited, and I felt immensely fortunate for the chance to experience this again. I began practicing "Quiet Time" regularly, reflecting on the valuable insights shared by Sir, and considered myself truly blessed to be part of the LMAD family. Celebrating my birthday with them was an especially heartwarming moment that I will cherish forever.

LMAD has provided me with not just lessons, but an entirely new perspective on life. I am immensely grateful to Viral Sir and the entire team for guiding me through this transformative journey. The happiness and fulfillment I have found through LMAD have ignited in me a desire to spread the values I’ve learned, and to share that happiness with others.

Thank you.