Get Involved

We all would have heard of many such statements that reiterate the gender we belong to and hence the reinforcement of respective societal norms to be followed. Gender influences all aspects of our life. As stated by WHO ‘Gender is hierarchical and produces inequalities that intersect with other social and economic inequalities.’

The roles attributed to a particular gender that have evolved over centuries have become so dogmatic that any diversion from these norms is considered nothing less than sin at times, irrespective of gender. For a few, the COVID-19 lockdown gave them an opportunity to better understand the lopsidedness of the gendered roles in managing households and doing household chores. But for a majority, gender inequality still continues to be a reality which results in the secondary status of women/girls and any other gender and instigating violence against them.

It is in this context that PHIA took forward this discourse on gender equality in a more structured and strategic manner among young people through the campaign – It’s Possible – to challenge and change gendered stereotypes, norms, attitudes, and behavior including notions of masculinities and femininities. It revolves around five themes – Division of Labour at home, Freedom of Choice, Honor, Language, and Parenting.

The overall objective is to build an action-oriented youth network that will challenge their surroundings on preconceived notions and biases around gender & masculinity.

The campaign aims at challenging and changing these popular and perceived ideas emerging from a feudal and patriarchal mindset and notions of ‘power’. ‘It’s Possible’ strongly believes that for change to be long-term and sustained it must start with the self and focuses on initiating dialogues and reflections around the ‘self’, exploring one’s values, beliefs and actions both in the private and public sphere. To change this status quo, there is an urgent need to work with individuals, especially men and boys to reimagine gender and what it means to be masculine. Through this project, we address this gap by creating a safe space among youth to talk and share about notions around gender from their personal experience.

It would focus on deconstructing the notion of power; rejecting power in the form of ‘Power Over’ and embracing power in the form of ‘Power Within, which initiates the process of empowerment. This would challenge patriarchal ideas and bring change in behavior and attitudes that are based on values of equity, dignity, and justice.

PHIA believes that the personal is political, through It’s Possible program our primary focus is to bring about change in the individuals associated with the program. The idea is to take the Change Makers on a guided reflective journey, where they become curious and start questioning the root/origin of many such socially promoted values and beliefs and their interconnectedness to the larger discourse around gender equality and perceived notions around masculinity.

Come, join us! Be a part of this amazing self-exploratory journey around gender equity. Let’s begin this journey of miles with our first step in the direction of building a better and equal society because IT’S POSSIBLE…

Who can apply?

1. Applicants should fall between 18 to 35 years of age.
2. Applicant should be based out of any of these places
   • Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
   • Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)
   • Ranchi (Jharkhand)
   • Delhi (Delhi NCR)
3. Applicants should have an inclination to work on social issues.
4. Applicants should be willing to volunteer for a minimum of six months.
5. The applicant should be able to devote two hours per week to this campaign.

Note – PHIA respects and promotes diversity. Applicants from SC / ST / Religious Minorities / Queer / Non-Binary identities are encouraged to apply.