#bigsisterprogram

FEB 3, 2018, SUNDAY

She was nervous, and so was I. She looked at me like I was a teacher. Strict, scary, and probably one that has a ruler in her bag. I wonder why are they called rulers? Is it because it reminds you of the rules that have to be followed? I had too many thoughts running in my mind. What should I ask her? What should I tell her? I was nervous.

Before I move further with what happened, let me give you a little background on what’s happening here. I’ve been selected as one of the few ‘big sisters’ for the Big Sister Program, a Non-Profit Organization which is a mentorship initiative for underprivileged young girls run by 2 powerful girl-trepreneurs, Anannya and Disha.

I was meeting my little sister that day. I started with the basics. I asked her name. Kubra asked mine. We then shared birthdays and favourite colours. I found out that she loves arts and crafts, and her favourite subject is English. She was very reserved and was answering only in single words. I wanted to try an ice-breaking exercise. I asked her if she wanted to do some drawing. 

We then started a Draw my Life to get to know each other better. We asked each other questions, and answered them in drawing and writing form. This way, I’d have an idea about her English speaking and writing skills. We spoke about family, friends, hometowns, and food. We then learned that both of us like dancing in the rain. She then started talking about the mischief at the hostel and the fun things the girls do together. The awkward silences and the distance at which we were sitting, both reduced. 

Kubra started telling me things without me asking. She told me that one day, she wants to travel to Singapore. I drew her a Merlion and explained to her what it was. She was being very inquisitive about my work and office once she found out that I have an office of my own. Throughout the session, we also made a list of things we wanted to do together through the mentorship. I also found out that she loves taking selfies.