Pema: From Architect to Dreamer of Play

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Sikkim, Pema, an architect with a heart full of dreams, began her transformative journey with the School for Social Transformation at the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Wayanad, Kerala. Pema's vision was unique and ambitious—she aspired to create a vibrant central play space in her city. This wasn’t just a playground; it was a community space that would serve as a hub of connection, learning, and joy for children and families alike.

The Dream

Before participating in the program, Pema had already crafted the blueprint for her dream. She envisioned children laughing, playing, and learning in a space that would nurture their growth and development, while simultaneously fostering a deeper sense of community. She understood that such a space would not only benefit children but would also become a gathering point for families, building stronger bonds within the community.

The Catalyst for Change

The School for Social Transformation provided Pema with the tools and insights she needed to take her dream to the next level. Through the program, she sharpened her leadership abilities, learned the intricacies of project planning, and connected with a network of like-minded changemakers. No longer just an architect, Pema emerged from the program as a dreamer of play, driven by the desire to make her vision a reality.

The Challenge

After the program, Pema encountered her first major challenge—funding. Undeterred, she sought out support from Peace First, an international organization known for funding youth-led initiatives. Pema passionately presented her project, articulating how it would transform her community by offering a safe, creative space for children.

However, her plans faced an unexpected roadblock. Peace First had temporarily suspended its seed grant program in India due to unforeseen circumstances. This left Pema’s project in limbo—a dream postponed but not forgotten.

Resilience and Hope

Despite this setback, Pema's story is one of resilience. Her dream of creating a central play space remains alive, and she continues to nurture it with optimism, knowing that the right opportunity will eventually come. Pema’s journey is a shining example of a change-maker's unwavering belief in their vision, and her story serves as a reminder that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to success.

Introduction by Pema:

"Hi! I'm from north-east India. I graduated from architecture school in 2020, and worked with a local studio for three years. At present, I'm freelancing and working on projects from multiple disciplines, not necessarily limited to architecture. I feel very strongly about the power of a collective versus an individual, in bringing about change and building solutions. Since 2021, I have been involved in various community-based projects in Gangtok, most of which were around advocating for participatory planning processes in the developmental plans of the city and state."

Pema's Superpowers:

• Optimism
• Active Listening
• Comprehension

A Dream Deferred, Not Defeated

Pema’s story reminds us that even when dreams are delayed, they remain powerful. Her vision for a central play space continues to evolve, and her spirit of community-driven change grows stronger each day. As she waits for the right opportunity to bring her dream to life, Pema’s dedication to making a difference remains unwavering.

Pema's journey from architect to a dreamer of play embodies the spirit of social transformation. Her efforts, though momentarily paused, are a testament to the power of persistence and the impact one individual can have on a community.

Stay tuned for more updates on Pema’s inspiring journey as we continue to share stories of change-makers like her on impact.theigniteindia.com.