By Faseela, Additional Program Coordinator, Community Wellbeing
14/02/2025
Under the auspices of the Kerala Mahila Samakhya Society, Keystone Foundation and the Kudumbashree Special Project organized a significant gathering aimed at empowering tribal women and youth. The event brought together over 350 participants, fostering discussions on traditional knowledge, health, and community development.
The program was inaugurated by the Director of General Education, Hon. S. Shanavas, IAS, and presided over by Edakkara Grama Panchayat President, Mr. O.T. James. Keystone Foundation Coordinator Adv. K.G. Ramachandran and the District Education Officer also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions while embracing modern development opportunities.
A key highlight of the event was a series of discussions led by experts from Keystone Foundation. The session on traditional food and health, guided by Additional Program Coordinator Faseela and Community Health Workers, explored the deep-rooted connection between Indigenous diets and well-being. Field Coordinator Sunil Kumar led discussions on the concept of Community Foundation, shedding light on initiatives that strengthen self-sufficiency among tribal groups. Technical Coordinator Shyamjith, along with community researchers, facilitated an engaging dialogue on tribal customs and traditional food items, underlining the need for cultural preservation.
In addition to the discussions, an exhibition showcased an impressive display of traditional food items and musical instruments, providing attendees with a firsthand experience of tribal heritage. The exhibition, curated under the leadership of Consultant Aswathi, attracted great interest from participants, highlighting the rich cultural legacy of Indigenous communities.
The event successfully created a platform for tribal youth and women to exchange knowledge, express concerns, and explore opportunities for sustainable development. By fostering such engagements, Keystone Foundation and Kudumbashree continue to play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indigenous wisdom while empowering tribal communities for a more resilient future.
