I can be proud to say that I have been a member of Bhumi since the times when it was merely a group of 5-6 youngsters in their final years in college, wanting to do something for the society. There were so few of us and there were even fewer resources. We would meet on weekends in Gandhi Mandapam in Guindy, Chennai and discuss on how to start working. It was in those meetings and some more in a garage that the idea of starting computer education for underprivileged children came, and thus was born Kanini- the first project and later the flagship of Bhumi. We contacted a few orphanages and some of them agreed to let us teach computers to their children. I was a volunteer at one such center along with Vaishnavi. I was very apprehensive as being a shy geek, I had never done any sort of teaching, except some seminars and my unfamiliarity with the local language was another issue. It was Vaishnavi, then new to the organization who took the reigns, never failing to amaze with her dedication and skills, and we managed to hold the classes for 30 girl students with the help of two outdated computers and a laptop. The situation was not very comfortable as the classes were often noisy and hot, but it was the affection of the children and their eagerness to learn which made us put an extra effort into whatever we did. Needless to say we managed to finish the whole course successfully. Although due to my personal commitments I couldn't resume teaching in the Bhumi projects, I remained an active member. Today when I look back, I realize how much Bhumi has grown- from 5-6 in 2006 to more than 1000 volunteers we have really come of age. In my journey with Bhumi, I have come across some extraordinary young men and women who has made a permanent impression on me by their hard work and commitment to Bhumi and society. Bhumi's biggest asset is its huge pool of young volunteers who are willing to work for the society. Together we have shown that given a chance to work, the youth of India can really make a difference..