Jeevika Tyagi: A Trailblazer in the World of Storytelling and Social Impact

Introduction

Jeevika Tyagi, an accomplished storyteller and social entrepreneur, has dedicated her life to amplifying underrepresented voices and empowering marginalized communities through the power of storytelling. Her transformative initiatives and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the global stage.

Early Life and Education:

Jeevika's passion for storytelling ignited at a young age, shaping her path towards a career in media and social change. She holds a Master's degree in Media and Cultural Studies from the prestigious Tata Institute of Social Sciences in India, a testament to her deep understanding of the role of communication in shaping societal narratives.

Founder of Dastangoi Collective:

In 2016, Jeevika co-founded the Dastangoi Collective, a groundbreaking organization that aims to revive the ancient art of Dastangoi storytelling and use it as a tool for social change. Dastangoi, a form of oral storytelling originating in Central Asia, captivates audiences with its immersive and engaging narratives. Through the Collective, Jeevika has trained and mentored over 200 Dastangoi storytellers across India, empowering them to share untold stories from marginalized communities and challenge prevailing narratives. Her efforts have not only preserved this endangered art form but also created a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard.

Women Narratives and Feminist Advocacy:

Jeevika is a staunch advocate for women's rights and empowerment. Her work through Dastangoi Collective has focused on amplifying women's narratives, particularly from rural and marginalized communities. She believes that storytelling can challenge gender stereotypes, promote diversity, and empower women to speak up and share their experiences. Jeevika's commitment to feminist advocacy extends beyond Dastangoi. She is a co-founder of Sister Library, a collective of feminists and activists working to create safe and inclusive spaces for women through books, art, and dialogue. Her tireless advocacy has made her a respected voice in the global feminist movement.

Social Impact through Storytelling:

Jeevika strongly believes in the power of storytelling to create positive social change. Through her work with Dastangoi Collective and other initiatives, she has used storytelling to address pressing issues such as gender inequality, caste discrimination, mental health, and climate change. One notable example is her project "Dastangoi for Change: Using Storytelling to Engage Young People in Issues of Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Violence." The project successfully used Dastangoi storytelling to engage young people in conversations about these critical issues, leading to increased awareness and a shift in attitudes.

Awards and Recognition:

Jeevika's groundbreaking work has earned her numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar from the President of India in 2019. This award recognizes her exceptional contributions towards women's empowerment and her dedication to social transformation through storytelling. In addition, Jeevika has been featured in leading publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, and The Guardian, further amplifying her message and inspiring others to embrace storytelling as a transformative force for good.

Conclusion:

Jeevika Tyagi's unwavering passion for storytelling and her commitment to social impact have positioned her as a beacon of change. Her work through Dastangoi Collective and other initiatives has provided a platform for underrepresented voices, challenged prevailing narratives, and empowered marginalized communities. As a storyteller, feminist advocate, and social entrepreneur, Jeevika continues to inspire and mobilize individuals worldwide, demonstrating that storytelling can be a powerful tool for positive transformation and collective action.

Jeevika Tyagi