Decode Change Fellowship
From Self to Society
Building Changemakers for a Better Tomorrow
The Decode Change Fellowship, an initiative of Decode Foundation and Studea Advisory, is a transformative program designed for young changemakers passionate about social impact. Rooted in the philosophy of “From Self to Society,” this fellowship nurtures individuals to become socially conscious leaders who drive meaningful societal transformation. By providing an immersive learning experience in social entrepreneurship, community service, change management, social work, and fundraising, the fellowship equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to create lasting change. We strongly emphasize integrating technology and new-age scientific tools to solve social problems, ensuring that fellows are equipped with innovative approaches to tackle complex challenges.
Fellowship Duration
The Decode Change Fellowship is a 20 to 40-week program, carefully structured to provide an intensive yet flexible experience. Over this period, fellows will engage in hands-on projects, structured learning modules, fieldwork, and mentorship, ensuring comprehensive exposure to social impact initiatives.
Fellowship Objectives
Preparing Future Leaders To Create Social Impact
The program enables students to engage deeply with community challenges, fostering a hands-on approach to social impact through structured learning and fieldwork.
Cultivating Empathy and Social Sensitivity
Fellows are encouraged to develop a deep sense of empathy and awareness, ensuring inclusivity across socio-economic, cultural, and gender diversities.
Understanding Systemic Barriers to Development
Participants will identify systemic gaps that hinder social progress and learn to address these challenges through innovative problem-solving and strategic interventions.
Driving Sustainable Change through Impactful Projects
The fellowship emphasizes action-oriented learning, where students will implement projects that foster behavioral change, mobilize resources, and create lasting impact in their communities.
Subjects Available for Study
Fellows can choose from a diverse range of subjects that align with their interests and aspirations, including:
Women and Gender Studies
Examines gender equality, women's empowerment, and gender-based discrimination, equipping students with tools to advocate for inclusive policies and practices.
Climate Change Initiatives
Focuses on understanding the science, impact, and mitigation strategies of climate change, enabling fellows to contribute to environmental sustainability initiatives.
Nature and Conservation
Explores ecological preservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable resource management, fostering awareness and action for environmental conservation.
Waste Management
Covers sustainable waste disposal, recycling, and circular economy principles to help communities reduce environmental degradation and promote sustainability.
Mental Health Issues
Addresses psychological well-being, mental health advocacy, and accessibility to mental health services, empowering students to support individuals and communities.
Water Conservation
Investigates the sustainable use, management, and conservation of water resources, promoting equitable access to clean water.
SVEEP Literacy Drives
Educates on electoral literacy, democratic participation, and voter engagement to strengthen democratic processes.
Access to Welfare Schemes
Analyzes social protection programs, their implementation challenges, and ways to improve access for marginalized populations.
Inclusive Legal Aid
Provides insightful understanding into legal frameworks, fundamental human rights, and equitable access to justice, enabling fellows to advocate for legal support and policy reforms.
Art, Heritage and Culture
Explores cultural preservation, the role of arts in social change, and heritage conservation, promoting community identity and historical awareness.
Change Enabler Tools and Partnerships
During the fellowship, students will engage with various tools and methodologies essential for driving social change, including:
- Participatory Research Methods
- Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)
- Fundraising Strategies
- Behavioral Change Communication (BCC)
- Gap Analysis and Needs Assessment
- Community Mobilization Techniques
- Organizing and Facilitating Community Events
- Policy Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement
- Social Impact Measurement and Evaluation
- Preparing IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) Materials
- Spreading Awareness through Campaigns and Outreach Initiatives
- Integrating Technology and Scientific Tools for Social Problem-Solving
The Decode Change Fellowship facilitates the enrolment and integration of fellows into organizations working in social impact, sustainability, and community development. Through structured internships, hands-on projects, and collaborative workshops, fellows will work closely with NGOs, research institutions, and CSR initiatives. This direct involvement equips them with practical experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities, enabling them to tackle real-world challenges and drive meaningful change in the development sector.
Fellowship Outcomes
Research Reports
Fellows will produce comprehensive research reports that analyze pressing social issues, offering data-driven insights and recommendations for policy and community interventions.
Student Publications
Students will have the opportunity to contribute to academic journals, blogs, and social innovation platforms, helping to disseminate knowledge and advocate for change at a broader level.
Impactful Initiatives
Each fellow will develop and implement a socially impactful project that has the potential for scalability and sustainability, equipping them with the experience to launch future initiatives.
Leadership Development
Fellows will cultivate leadership skills, strategic thinking, advocacy, and community mobilization. Through mentorship and experience, they will drive initiatives, inspire change, and lead with impact.
Changemaker Persona
The fellowship nurtures not just professional skills but also personal growth, ensuring that participants develop a strong sense of empathy, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to social change.
Eligibility Criteria
The Decode Change Fellowship is a highly selective program designed to attract the most committed and visionary young changemakers. Selection is based not just on academic performance but also on the applicant’s passion for their chosen subject, their commitment to social change, and their long-term goals. Candidates must demonstrate a strong sense of purpose, innovative thinking, and the ability to drive impact in their communities. The rigorous selection process ensures that fellows are not only capable but also dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the world.
The Social Impact Mentor
The Decode Change Fellowship is enriched by the guidance of experienced mentors who provide insights into social impact strategies and leadership development. The key mentor of this fellowship is Divy Bhagia, an expert in social and environmental communication. With over 11 years of experience in Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) and Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), Divy brings a wealth of knowledge in community-driven development. His leadership in social programs across Gujarat and his role as a UNICEF South Asia Climate Change Champion reflect his deep commitment to fostering sustainable coexistence between humans, wildlife, and nature. His multidisciplinary background in Engineering, Psychology, and Development Communication allows him to merge technical knowledge with storytelling to create impactful, evidence-based interventions. Fellows will benefit from his expertise in designing communication strategies, leveraging technology for social change, and implementing community engagement models that drive measurable impact.
Through a combination of mentorship, experiential learning, and collaborative engagement, the Decode Change Fellowship aspires to nurture a new generation of socially conscious leaders committed to building a more equitable and sustainable world.
Decode Change Fellows
Pulkit Bhawsinghka
Ronak Sureka
