In the heart of Malout, Punjab, from June 28-29, 2025, I took on my role as a trainer for the first time at the EXPA CADET program’s Basic Leadership Camp. Over two whirlwind days, we coached around 400 Senior Division and Senior Wing NCC cadets through sessions on self-development, clear thinking, unbiased decision-making, critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. What unfolded was a deeply fulfilling journey one of connection, growth, and the thrill of watching young minds awaken to their potential. It was an experience that left me inspired and whole.
One encounter stood out, crystallizing why I was there. After a session, a Senior Wing cadet approached me, her voice carrying a quiet doubt: “Sir, we’ve spent two days talking about skills and strengths, but I don’t think I’m great at anything.” I’d noticed her during my sessions, how she listened intently and how her responses were thoughtful and grounded, even when the room pushed back. She had a gift for communication, speaking her truth with quiet confidence. I looked at her and said, “You’re already great at communicating, standing by your ideas with such clarity, even when others disagree. That’s your starting point.” I added, “You know, the only way to get great at something is to let yourself be not-so-great at first.” Her face lit up with a smile, a spark of self-belief taking hold. In that moment, I felt my purpose snap into focus. Her newfound confidence mirrored my own, washing away my earlier doubts about whether I was truly making an impact. That exchange, that spark, was why I was part of the CADET program.
My pillars: Mr. Nandish, Ms. Hema, Ms. Khushi, Mr. Chandrakanth, Mr. Mahesh Joshi, and Ms. Pooja – our incredible Team Leader, were the backbone of this experience. As seniors, they welcomed me with effortless trust, making me feel like a valued peer from the start. Their encouragement and subtle mentorship shaped my delivery in ways I didn’t even notice until I reflected later. Mid-session, I’d catch myself using a teaching technique or phrase and think, “How did I learn this?” Then it hit me! These amazing people had taught me without me realizing it, inspiring me to bring my best to every moment. Standing with them for a group photo, where they insisted I took the front spot, symbolizing their camaraderie and cooperation – a memory I’ll treasure forever.
The CADET program’s curriculum is meticulously crafted to engage cadets, and I saw this in action. During rational thinking discussions, I watched cadets’ faces light up as they grasped new perspectives. Their engagement wasn’t just in receiving content but in reciprocating with insights of their own. Another cadet, silent throughout the public speaking session, found his voice afterward. In a shaky note, he wrote, “Oscar sir, you helped me overcome my stage fear.” Reading that note sent me to cloud nine, a reminder of the program’s power to unlock potential at the right time in a young person’s life.
This camp wasn’t just about the cadets, it transformed me too. The satisfaction of delivering meaningful content, the improved self-image from overcoming my own doubts, and the sense of fulfillment from impacting lives left me eager to continue with CADET. The program addresses India’s youth at a pivotal phase, fostering responsible, bias-free individuals rich in critical thinking. To anyone considering becoming a trainer: dive in. The rewards, of connection, growth, and purpose are immeasurable.
Not only did I take a wealth of lessons from this experience, but I also left a piece of my heart back in Malout itself, a testament to the deep connection forged with Meraki during those two days.
Project Engineer at SSM Infotech Solutions Pvt. Ltd
NCC 2016-2019
GV Mavlankar Shooting Championship
EXPA CADET Trainer since 2025
