In our society, four spaces for young people are widely accepted: family, friends, career-related education, and leisure. Yet, on the margins exists a vital, often overlooked realm—what we call the 5th Space. This is where young people feel empowered, heard, and invested in for their own sake. In the 5th Space, youth embark on a journey of self-discovery through social action, active citizenship, and volunteering.
Pravah envisions the 5th Space as a transformative arena, equally focused on personal growth and societal impact. By engaging in the 5th Space, young people undergo self-transformation that fuels their capacity to drive societal change.
How can we create leaders on a large scale through the magic of the 5th Space? The answer lies in a different approach—not merely by teaching, but by creating environments that are:
At Pravah, we believe that by nurturing the 5th Space, we can cultivate a generation of empathetic, self-aware, and socially responsible leaders, poised to make a profound impact on the world around them. This is the story of our mission and the heart of our work.
In her town, Manisha grew up believing that menstruation was impure and followed customs that isolated women during their periods. Participating in the My Life Mere Faisle program challenged her beliefs and expanded her understanding of forms of gender-based violence.
She engaged with women from Self Help Groups, fostering conversations about menstrual health and questioning the notion of impurity. She raised awareness about child marriage and conducted sessions on sexual violence.
Despite fears of being judged, Manisha realized the importance of being bold to create a safer environment.
