Life competence by being complementary in our role in day to day life

Can you tell us more about yourself, Meenal?
I have a PhD from Mumbai University in Biochemistry. Further I trained in Counseling Psychology from Xavier’s Institute and St.Xavier’s Academy in using Behaviour Models. I developed counselling module in the areas Micro skills, Infertility, Relationship- self, couple, children, family, Family Planning, HIV/AIDS and pediatric counselling.

Your team in Manipur celebrated CAD 2010 with the support of Joma. How did that go?
I was working at that time in Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Foundation (FXB) - Suraksha in India and my requirement was to motivate the team and showcase their work. Community Action Day helped me build the capacity of the team in Manipur in community empowerment. Joma facilitated my task and FXB India Suraksha work was global at a click.

Where there any (small or big) changes after CAD?
Yes, the team spirit elevated and hopefully maintained. And I have changed job to Engender Health since Jan 2011.

You didn't know the Constellation's approach and you have never met us in person.
Yes but everything was available on web and by email and tele-coaching by Rituu was helpful.

What motivated you to participate so actively in the organization of the day?
I think community involvement is key to my work in Sexual and Reproductive Health or HIV/AIDS so professional interest motivated me to remain in touch. Secondly, I got to know the people of many countries without having to visit them and meet them or even talked to them.

What will you do for CAD this year?
I wish to observe CAD on population day on 11th July in one of the villages in Ghaziabad to initiate the community in No-Scalpel Vasectomy acceptance. I am in touch with Rituu about the same.

Anything else you would like to share?
I wanted to share this skype conversation I had with Rituu…

Rituu B. Nanda: I like one thing about you- your voice and warmth :-)
Meenal Mehta: Quality in person - Warmth, care and support
Meenal Mehta: Quality as woman- I follow Upanishad (an ancient Indian scripture) that says that in the Universe balance is by complementary action in our day-to-day life. I use this principle everywhere and inact my complementary role. To me life is all about Playing our Role to the best of our ability.
Rituu B. Nanda: Beautiful Meenal. Many thanks.
Meenal Mehta: I am passionate about Health System Strengthening (HSS) and I participate in National and International trainings and meeting to learn and contribute towards HSS.
Rituu B. Nanda: ok