Eight undergraduate students have returned from Mumbai after participating in Spark India – a social entrepreneurship bootcamp and social leadership training programme run by the Social Impact Lab at Southampton.
The student ‘Fellows’ spent three weeks working with social entrepreneurs at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) to develop and launch new social ventures that provide a range of social and environmental services, including waste management, rural education and skills training for low income women.
The Fellows visited established social businesses and learned about Mumbai’s bustling social enterprise ecosystem. They also participated in a personal development programme, which included workshops and social leadership opportunities.
Fellow and final year Psychology student Beckie Thomas said:
“Spark India has genuinely been a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the realities of social entrepreneurship with people who have really challenged, questioned and encouraged me to learn and grow.”
The eight Fellows will continue to work together as part of the Social Impact Lab’s new Fellows’ Network, which provides alumni with access to peer support and guidance as they begin their social entrepreneurship and leadership journeys.
Commenting on the value of the network, Fellow and final year History student Jack Pethick said:
“Spark India has been one of the most fantastic experiences of my life and I am excited to be part of a brilliant support and alumni network as I start my career.”
For more information, please contact Josie Love, Programme Manager.