Diphu (Assam): In the wake of rampant substance abuse among the teenagers in North East region of India, a Goa-based musical team conducted a week-long workshop with motivational sessions, value education and a grand finale at the Hilltop Christian School, Diphu, Assam on 8 February 2020.
A group 75 teenagers between 13 and 14 years of age group, who were indulged in drugs, marijuana and alcohol, came together to come out of their addiction and to have ambitions for life. “Much like the Biblical character Job they performed in the musical, the kids displayed belief in themselves and showed grit and determination to face the challenging times ahead”, said Mr. Georg Schaberger, the Co-Founder of the musical team, The Upper Room. “The transformation of both Job and the teenagers was made possible by their ability to change and to stand up against challenging circumstances and not giving up their belief despite negative past experience.”
Through the workshop prior to the final performance, the team tried to create a platform for the teenagers to identify their problems and help them discover possible solutions, said Ansan Samuel, another founding member of the Upper Room. “Talks and workshops prior to the show played a crucial part of our module focused on living a transformational school-culture that centered on appreciation, gratitude and leadership”.
“There is a ME that is MEant to lead”, said one of the teenagers at the end of the workshop. The Upper Room has planted positive seeds in our lives. We are hopeful these seeds will grow up to big trees that produce good fruit for our society, said another.
School Principal Esther Suibung Khozol showed much satisfaction over the outcome of the workshop and expressed hope the workshop will have a lasting impact on the teenagers.
Workshops and musicals such as this can be a game changer for the grim context of drug and substance abuse in the region.